Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU)
Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU) gives you more control over when you are seen by one of our specialist teams. Instead of routine appointments, you can contact the service when you feel you need support.
Patient initiated follow up (PIFU) is a way of managing follow‑up care for some people with long‑term conditions, who do not need regular hospital appointments.
Rather than being given pre‑booked appointments, you can request a follow‑up appointment when you need one. This means you are seen at the right time for you.
What are the benefits of PIFU
PIFU is led by you and supported by us…so you tell us when you need support with your care.
Traditionally you will have received regular appointments, probably between every 6-12 months. It may be that at some appointments, your condition has been fine and you feel that it would have been more beneficial to be seen when your condition is more troublesome. With PIFU you will have:
✔ Fewer hospital visits – saving time and travel
✔ Quick reassurance – contact us if symptoms change
✔ More confidence – you’re supported to manage your condition
✔ Care that fits your life
How PIFU works
If suitable, you will be placed on a PIFU plan for a set period of time which your doctor will discuss with you. You will not receive routine appointments during this time.
When should I contact the service?
If you have a flare up of your symptoms and need advice or an appointment, just contact the department you are being cared for in (details can be found in the patient portal, on a letter from the service, or on our website).
We will arrange for you to be seen in the next available clinic slot. In most cases your PIFU appointment should be within a short number of weeks.
Where else can I get help?
You can still see your GP at any time, about this condition or any other. Your GP will be informed when you are moved onto a PIFU pathway.
If you are very unwell or your symptoms are getting worse quickly, please contact NHS 111, or in an emergency, call 999 or come to the Emergency Department at Royal Bolton Hospital.
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