PIFU allows patients who have already had an initial outpatient appointment to request access to a follow-up if and when they need one, instead of being booked in automatically.
Benefits include:
- Saves time and money by reducing the number of patients who are invited to regular ‘routine’ appointments when they are well or nothing has changed since their last appointment.
- Frees up capacity to see people who need a face-to-face appointment or consultation.
- Reduces pollution by cutting down on the number of unnecessary journeys to hospital.
How does it work?
- Your clinician will discuss your condition with you and explain the signs or symptoms that may indicate you need to make an appointment.
- The length of time that you will remain on PIFU, i.e. the period during which you’ll be able to get in touch to request a follow-up appointment, will be discussed and agreed with you.
- You will be given a letter explaining this, which will include a contact number for you to access advice or book an appointment should you need one.
- To arrange an appointment, you must have been told that this is appropriate for you and have been given advice by your clinician.
- To book an appointment, you simple need to contact the number or email address in your clinic letter and ask for a “patient initiated follow-up appointment”.
- Once the agreed PIFU period is over, you will be discharged from our care. If further advice is needed in the future, you will need to be referred back into the service by your GP.
How long will I have to wait before I receive an appointment?
If you get in touch because you feel worse, your clinician will review your symptoms with you and decide the most appropriate next steps, including how quickly you might need to be seen. You may be provided with advice or support over the phone or could need to come in for a face-to-face appointment.
Do I have to agree to PIFU if it’s being offered to me?
No, you do not have to agree to PIFU if you do not feel it’s right for you. Your
decision will not affect your care in any way, and you will receive a routine follow-up appointment as before.
For further information
The healthcare team who offered you PIFU will be happy to answer your questions.
Their contact details can be found on your appointment or clinical letter.
