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See on Symptom (SOS) and Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU)

The majority of patients with long term conditions, or following a hospital treatment, do not require regular follow up by the hospital team. Patients should access our care at the most appropriate time when they need it, rather than according to a routine schedule. Research has shown that having a regular outpatient follow-up does not help to prevent your condition returning or identify new problems. 

See on Symptom (SOS) and Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) are two ways we deliver care to outpatients. These services empower patients to take control by giving them the choice and flexibility around when they access our care. 

See on symptom (SOS)

The See on Symptom (SOS) service should be used for short-term conditions. 

  • This service relies on patients to self-refer if there are any issues with their condition within an agreed timeframe.
  • At the time of the decision to place the patient on to the See on Symptom (SOS) service, the clinician should determine and clearly communicate the timeframe for SOS access.
  • This service is time limited to three, six, nine or twelve months. Once the agreed timeframe has passed, the SOS service is automatically closed and no further action is required. 

 

Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU)

Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) should be used for chronic long-term conditions. 

  • Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) should be used for cases where the next appointment does not need to be booked at that point in time as the condition is being managed well by the patient. 
  • The patient and clinician agree that the patient will initiate the next follow-up appointment when required. This is based on the patient's understanding of their condition and when support is needed to maintain their health and wellbeing. 
  • The patient will remain on the Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) list as this service is used for chronic long-term conditions. 
  • A clinician may contact the patient to review and ensure the care plans are still appropriate. 

 

What are the benefits of See on Symptom (SOS) and Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU)? 

  • See on Symptom (SOS) and Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) provide patients with direct access to expert guidance when they most need it.
  • Advice can be provided by a clinician over the phone or a video call to avoid the need for a face to face follow-up appointment. 
  • Patients will save time and money by not travelling to hospital sites unless necessary. 
  • Reduces patient anxiety which is often associated with attending follow-up appointments at the hospital
  • Helps patients who are struggling to cope to be seen quicker by their clinician. 
  • Waiting list times are reduced as patients will see clinicians when required, rather than according to a routine schedule. 

What to do if you are concerned? 

These services are quick and easy to use. Call the number on your See on Symptom (SOS) or Patient Initiated Follow up (PIFU) service letter and we will contact you once a decision has been made on the best action to take based on your symptoms. Only use the service for symptoms associated with the condition you have received treatment for.

Please remember it is important that you are available for your appointment. If you find you are not available at the allocated appointment time, please tell us in advance so we can try to give your appointment to someone else. If you don't attend your appointment without notifying us, you will likely be referred back to your GP.

Please note that the operator that takes your call cannot give any clinical advice. 

For other concerns or if you are feeling unwell, we have a number of local health services including pharmacies, Minor Injury Units (MIUs), NHS 111 Wales, GP services and dental to help you get the right advice and treatment.