Physiotherapy Neurology Out-patients: Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) – Information for patients from physiotherapy

Patient Experience

  • Reference Number: HEY1420-2024
  • Departments: Neurology and Neurosurgery, Therapies
  • Last Updated: 1 January 2024
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Introduction

This leaflet has been produced to give you general information. Most of your questions should be answered by this leaflet. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and the healthcare team, but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have any concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.

What is a Patient-Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) pathway?

A patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) means that we will not routinely book you an appointment, instead we are putting you in control of making your own appointments at a time when you need them most, within a given timeframe.

How does PIFU work?

You will have been given this leaflet because your healthcare professional is happy that you do not need to see them again unless you have a problem. If you do have any problems, you can contact the physiotherapy department on the given telephone number and they will arrange an appointment, either by telephone or face to face if it is needed.    You contact the physiotherapy department, within 2 years, if you need to be seen.

When should I call for a PIFU?

You can call to make an appointment if you:

  • are not improving to a level that was expected;
  • have worsening symptoms relating to your condition;
  • have a “flare-up”.

Please note, you can only initiate a PIFU appointment for the specific condition you were originally referred to the physiotherapy service for.

When should I not use PIFU?

  • If your concern is related to different condition.
  • If the 2 year time period has lapsed, please contact your GP, consultant or specialist nurse to ask them regarding another referral.
  • If you need urgent medical advice you should contact your GP or NHS111.

What if I do not need a PIFU follow-up appointment?

You do not have to arrange an appointment if you feel it is not required.  If you don’t contact us to book an appointment within 2 years, the PIFU will expire and you will be discharged back to the care of your GP.  We will not contact you to book a PIFU appointment, it must be initiated by you.

Booking a PIFU follow up appointment:

  • Call the Physiotherapy department on tel: 01482 674539 (Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm – excluding bank holidays)
  • State you are on a PIFU pathway and require an appointment.
  • Agree an appointment date and time.
  • Attend your telephone or face to face appointment.

Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this leaflet, please do not hesitate to contact the physiotherapy department on tel: 01482 674539.