In this section
Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU)
Patient Initiated Follow-Up, often referred to as ‘PIFU’, puts you in control of making an appointment when you need it and provides you with direct access to guidance when you need it.
The majority of patients with stable long-term conditions do not require regular follow up by the hospital team. Research has shown that regular visits do not help to prevent your condition returning, or identify new problems. Instead of being offered regular clinic visits and routine check-ups with your consultant, PIFU patients can make their own appointment only when they need it e.g. when you experience a flare-up of your condition - reducing the unnecessary anxiety, travel and time spent waiting for a routine follow-up.
When not to use PIFU
If you require urgent medical advice you should contact your GP or NHS 111, or if you are really unwell, your local emergency department (A&E). For all other concerns, or if you are feeling unwell, your GP remains your first point of contact.
How to use PIFU
If you are on a PIFU pathway and experience a flare-up, please call us and explain to the team that you are experiencing a flare-up and you need to be seen - the contact details for each service can be found on the pages below. The team will agree a suitable appointment date and time over the phone with you.
To access further detail, including support team contact details and symptoms to look out for, please navigate to the specific service page you require below.
