Went to work in the clinics today.
Any thoughts on what I am about to tell you most welcome.
The clinic I helped in was what we call rapid access. This means that the G.P. may suspect cancer and as soon as the letter reaches the hospital. The patient is asked to attend within a two week window. This is important for the Patient and for the Trust as we are measured on the validity of
This action.
Today we had six patients booked and two turned up.
It got me to thinking why does this happen and what can be done to improve the situation.
Firstly I believe the G.P.'s should tell their patients that an urgent appointment has been made for them and that they need to be available over the next two weeks. If holiday or other circumstance prevents the visit, then it should be noted so that the hospital secretaries do not make the appointment until convenient.
Appointments do appear to made at very short notice,with messages being left on answer phones.If this can be improved,then it should be.
I have asked for this issue to be taken to our Governance committee. Watch this space.
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