What is Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU)?
The Gynaecology Department offers Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU). Traditionally, follow-up appointments are scheduled by the hospital at regular intervals. Some patients find this system helpful, but others may find them unnecessary or stressful. When you are on a PIFU pathway, you can arrange a follow-up appointment when you feel it is necessary and aims to put you in control of your care and allow direct access to guidance when you need it. Your doctor will decide if they think you are suitable for PIFU and will discuss this with you.
How does PIFU work?
PIFU works by placing you on to a PIFU pathway rather than being given a follow-up appointment in clinic. Your doctor may recommend PIFU if they feel it is safe and beneficial for you to manage your own follow-up. You will not receive a regular follow-up appointment; instead, you will contact the hospital when you need an appointment.
Once it has been agreed that PIFU is suitable for you, your doctor will discuss what circumstances you should request a follow-up appointment in. This will most commonly be when there is failure to resolve your symptoms, you are concerned about your symptoms, or you are experiencing side effects as a result of treatment. You will remain on this waiting list for a set period of time as agreed with your clinician (maximum of 1 year) during which you can contact us to arrange follow up if you feel this is required. If you reach the end of the agreed time period for PIFU and you have not organised follow up, you will be discharged back to your GP who can refer you to our department again if you need to be seen in the future.
Benefits of PIFU
- You are in control of your own care and follow up, enabling you to get help when you need it
- Coming in to hospital less frequently, taking less time off work and less time travelling into hospital
- Fewer unnecessary appointments which means there are more appointments available for patients who need them
- Reducing unnecessary travel reduces our carbon footprint
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I book a follow up appointment?
Please contact the Women’s Health Clinicon 0191 44527242 if you wish to book a follow up appointment.
How long will I remain on PIFU?
This will be discussed and agreed between you and your clinician, up to a maximum of 1 year.
When should I call for a PIFU?
This will be discussed with your doctor, but you can call and book a PIFU appointment if:
- Your symptoms have failed to resolve
- You are concerned about your symptoms
- You are experiencing unwanted side effects as a result of treatment
When should I not call for a PIFU?
If you are experiencing new symptoms not related to your initial consultation or need urgent medical advice, a PIFU appointment is not appropriate. You should contact your GP or phone 111. In emergencies, you should go to your local Emergency Department or call a 999 ambulance.
What happens if I don’t need a follow up within the agreed timeframe?
If you do not require an appointment, then you do not need to contact us. Once you reach the end of your set PIFU time period and have not made a follow up appointment, you will automatically be discharged back to the care of your GP.
When will I hear when my appointment is?
An appointment, if required, will be offered at the next available date as this service is not for urgent or emergency care. If you have not received notification of an appointment after 2 weeks, please contact 0191 445 2742.
What if I change my mind and would like to return to traditional follow up appointments?
If you feel you wish to return to a standard follow up appointment, please contact your Consultant’s secretary (their telephone number will be on your clinic letter) or the Women’s Health Department on 0191 4452187 and we will arrange this for you.
Contact Details
Gynaecology, Women's Health Clinic
Address/based in the hospital: Women’s Health Department, Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust | Queen Elizabeth Hospital | Queen Elizabeth Avenue | Sheriff Hill | Gateshead | NE9 6SX
Monday – Friday
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