This means patients can arrange follow-up appointments when they feel they are necessary, or if their symptoms get worse, giving them access to support and guidance when they need it most.
This means appointments are based on patients' individual needs, and can be arranged at a time to suit them, with less need for time off work and travel.
It also means appointments are not arranged unless they are necessary, making access easier where patients do need them.
Your 'PIFU plan'
If we think this might be suitable for you, we will speak to you about creating a 'PIFU plan'. We will decide how long it should last - it may be open-ended.
If you are under the care of more than one department, your PIFU plan may not apply to all of them: some departments may still send you regular follow-up appointments to monitor your condition.
If you choose not to arrange an appointment within your PIFU time period, we will discharge you back to your GP, who can refer you back to hospital in future if necessary.
For some patients with long-term conditions this may not be appropriate - we will discuss this with them.
Arranging a follow-up appointment
When creating your 'PIFU plan', we will discuss which symptoms you should look out for, providing written information about this, so you can refer back to it.
We will provide you with the correct contact details for the department, and if you experience any of these symptoms, please contact us as soon as possible to arrange an appointment.
If you experience any symptoms not listed on your letter, contact your GP or call 111 for advice.
To arrange an appointment, it is important that you:
- have a PIFU plan discussed with your hospital care team
- make contact within the timeframe agreed
- need an appointment for a specific health concern your PIFU plan relates to, rather than a new or unrelated concern.
Further information
For advice, or if you have any questions, please speak to the team caring for you.
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