What is Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU)?
Patient Initiated Follow Up, often referred to as PIFU, has been designed to improve your patient experience and puts you in control of making an appointment with your consultant or healthcare team when you need it the most.
It means that you can initiate a follow-up appointment within an agreed timeframe that will be discussed with your consultant or healthcare team, only if you require one.
You will not be automatically placed onto the PIFU pathway, this will be discussed with you by your consultant or healthcare team first.
When can I arrange a PIFU appointment?
You may want to arrange a PIFU appointment if you have a flare up of symptoms relating to your condition, or if you feel that you are not making progress as outlined in your appointment.
Attending regular outpatient appointments arranged by your healthcare team does not prevent your condition or symptoms from returning or reduce the amount of time you need to recover.
What are the benefits of PIFU?
PIFU supports with reducing how many times you need to visit the hospital, which can support with reducing unnecessary stress and anxiety you may experience.
How long do I have to arrange a PIFU appointment?
Your consultant or healthcare team will agree a suitable timeframe in which you can schedule a PIFU appointment, if required.
After this set timeframe, you will be discharged back to the care of your GP.
If you require urgent medical advice after this time, you should contact your GP or NHS 111.