Lots of work is underway locally in mid and south Essex to help people get quicker, easier access to important healthcare services. This includes patients referring themselves to local services. Many patients can get specialist help and advice without needing to see their GP.
Peter was suffering with hip and knee issues. He had an “excellent experience” after calling his surgery and booking an appointment with a physiotherapist who supports patients across a number of GP practices in a Primary Care Network. Here is his story:
“I received an appointment quickly with a specialist. I felt that the assessment process was really thorough. The physiotherapist listened closely to my needs. I was pleased and relieved when they were able to send me directly for an x-ray with a referral to a hospital specialist.
“Fortunately, a diagnosis was made and the next thing I knew, I was on a waiting list for a necessary operation. I felt reassured by the whole process and by the kindness of the NHS staff that I met along the way.”
What really made a difference to Peter’s journey was that he felt in control because of the self-referral option:
Everyone says patients know themselves best. Allowing us to make our own informed referrals into a well-resourced community health centre enables effective triage and treatment.