PIFU

NHS England is supporting healthcare providers to roll out patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU).

This is to give patients and their carers the flexibility to arrange their follow-up appointments as and when they need them. Deciding when you need to see your healthcare provider again should not necessarily be dictated by a set period of time.

In the past PIFU may have gone under the terms open access follow-up, patient led follow-up, patient triggered follow-up or self-managed follow-up. Essentially these are designed to empower you to manage your own condition and play a key role in the shared decision-making process.

PIFU is part of the outpatients transformation requirements laid out in the 2022/23 Operational Planning Guidance and is a key part of the NHS’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic, helping providers and systems manage waiting lists and to see patients most in need more quickly. To read more about how NHS England is implementing PIFU, visit their webpage

About the BSR: The British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) is the leading UK specialist medical society for rheumatology and musculoskeletal care professionals. They support their members to deliver the best care at all stages of the care pathway, improving the lives of children and adults with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. Learn more.