See on Symptoms (SOS) and Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU)

We are transforming our Outpatient Services to improve access and the health of our communities in CTM.

In order to give patients more control over their own care, free up capacity to see patients when they most need to be seen, and reduce the number of appointments which do not add clinical benefit for patients, CTM has launched SOS (See on Symptom) and Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU).

What are See on Symptoms (SOS) and Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU)?

See on Symptoms (SOS) and Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU) puts you, the patient, in control of when you are seen by the service.

See on Symptoms (SOS)

Your clinician will advise you whether your condition is suitable to transfer you to a SOS pathway, rather than regular follow up appointments scheduled by the hospital.  This is to allow for a defined period of time within which your condition is expected to improve.  If you experience any issues or concerns regarding your condition during this time period, you can request advice/support from your referring clinician.

Your clinician will discuss with you about having your follow-ups in this way and will provide you with all of the necessary advice and guidance regarding self-management of your condition.  It is a joint decision between yourself and your clinician whether you are put on a SOS pathway, and if you agree, will receive a letter explaining the process to book an appointment where necessary.

If you do not require a follow-up appointment within the duration of your defined SOS pathway time period, you will be automatically discharged back to the care of your GP.

Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU)

Attending regular outpatient appointments scheduled by the hospital can cause unnecessary anxiety – for example, time taken to travel, park and wait for the appointment, especially when your condition is stable.

Sometimes, regular outpatient appointments may not result in any change to your treatment and in fact, your condition may flare up in between regular booked appointment.  It is during these times that you’ll need expert advice and guidance from your clinician.

Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU) puts you in control of making an appointment or getting advice when you need it the most.

Your clinician will discuss with you about having your follow-ups in this way and will provide you with all of the necessary advice and guidance regarding self-management of your condition.  It is a joint decision between yourself and your clinician whether you are put on a PIFU pathway, and if you agree, will receive a letter explaining the process to book an appointment where necessary.

You will continue to stay on a PIFU pathway for the duration of your condition and will not be discharged back to the care of your GP.