Lung Function Unit – CPAP Service – Patient Initiated Follow-Up appointment

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We are changing the way we support your long-term CPAP therapy. Once you have become comfortable and confident with managing your therapy independently, you will be suitable for Patient-Initiated Follow-Up appointments. Bellow are some common questions and answers that explains the benefits of this change in service.

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

A patient initiated follow up (PIFU for short) allows you to arrange follow up appointments as and when you need them. This puts you in control and enables us to create capacity for direct access to guidance when you most need it. People with stable long-term conditions do not require regular follow up appointments by the hospital team. Research has shown that the PIFU approach is not detrimental to your clinical care. The Respiratory Physiology Team will decide if you are suitable for PIFU during your appointment.

How do I book a patient initiated follow up appointment?

The service is quick and easy to use. Call the number on this leaflet and explain to the team that you are on the PIFU pathway and need to be seen. The team will agree a suitable appointment date and time for you to have a consultation (face-to-face or telephone) with a member of the Respiratory Physiology Team. If you have not heard back within a week, please call again for an update.

When should I call for a PIFU?

You should call and book a PIFU appointment if you feel your CPAP therapy is no longer managing your condition, and/or if you require clinical advice/education.

Will you still be looking after me if I do not call for a PIFU?

After three years, if you have not contacted MKUH for an appointment, a face-to-face appointment will be booked for you.

If you decided to surrender your therapy, you will be discharged, and requested to return CPAP equipment.

What if I am worried and change my mind about this style of management?

If you wish to revert to regular hospital appointments, please get in contact with the department and we will arrange this for you. We understand that patients may have concerns about not having regular contact with the hospital.

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback both negative and positive; we may be in contact in the future to gain feedback on your experience using this service.

Contact Details

PIFU appointment bookings (Central Booking Office): 01908 997050.