A doctor says there is good news for anyone “stuck” on an NHS waiting list after the health service made changes this month that he believes will help those who “don’t have a clue what’s going on” in terms of timeframes for appointments and procedures.
Dr Michael Trueman, who is currently developing his own health support tool for patients, families and caregivers affected by rare and serious chronic conditions, took to TikTok to explain what the update means for you.
“The NHS just updated its minimum communications standards, and this is what you can expect from now on,” he began in a video.
“Once you have had your referral accepted by the hospital, you should get information to you directly through the NHS app or an email. This tells you that they accepted the referral, have further advice on what to do if the condition gets worse, and also clear contact details for them to use.”
As for the “big change”, Dr Trueman says the NHS is now obliged to provide patients with updates every 12 weeks.
As well as providing the same information as above, the update may also request further information, such as how you are doing with your ailment.
“It’s really important you reply to them if you get this,” the doctor emphasised. “Also importantly, if you are not getting this information [the updates], it is really important you raise it with PALS [the NHS’ Patient Advice and Liaison Service] or with the hospital department directly to keep them accountable.”
Dr Trueman closed by reiterating: “This update might come via the NHS App, email, text or letter. It’s not a legal right – it’s a minimum standard.”
A statement on the changes by NHS England’s Chief Executive Officer, Sir Jim Mackey reads: “Over the past year, we have made huge strides in improving elective performance and reducing waiting lists, but too many patients still don’t feel informed or involved while they wait for their appointments.
“These standards represent the minimum they must be able to expect from the NHS at what can be one of the most challenging times of their lives, and I know in many places you are going beyond what these standards set out.”
Mr Mackey added: “Thank you for all that you are doing already and will do to continue to improve performance, and to ensure that these minimum standards are what patients can rightly expect from elective care wherever they are across the country.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
