Your doctor has recommended your child is placed on a Patient Initiated Follow up (PIFU).
This information will explain how PIFU works within the Vascular Anomalies Service. It outlines when to use PIFU, how to request an appointment, and what to do if you need urgent medical help.
What is a PIFU
Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU) allows you to request a follow up appointment for your child when you feel it is needed, rather than attending routine appointments set by the hospital.
PIFU is only for the condition your child has already been seen for.
If your child becomes unwell or develops new symptoms, please contact your GP.
Your clinician will discuss PIFU with you if they feel it is suitable.
The benefits of PIFU?
- Reduces unnecessary routine appointments
- Allows you to request an appointment when symptoms flare
- Ensures your child is seen based on clinical need
- Helps reduce waiting times for all patients
When should I request a PIFU appointment?
You should contact us if:
- Your child’s symptoms are not improving with current treatment
- You wish to start a treatment previously discussed but initially declined
- Your child has completed a planned investigation (e.g., scan or blood test) and you were advised to arrange a PIFU appointment
Before you call
Please check:
- Your clinician or clinical nurse specialist (CNS) has placed your child on a PIFU pathway
- Your child’s last appointment was within the past 12 months
- You are calling about the same condition your child is on PIFU for
- For new symptoms, please contact your GP.
How to request a PIFU appointment
Step 1: Contact us
- Clinical Nurse Specialist: 0113 392 0930
- Paediatric Radiology Secretaries: 0113 392 2336
- Monday to Friday 8:00am until 4:00pm
Step 2: Ask for
“Vascular Anomalies Paediatric PIFU appointment.”
Step 3: Provide
- Your child’s full name
- Date of birth
- Hospital or NHS number (if known)
Step 4: Tell us
- The date of the last clinic appointment,
- A brief explanation of why you are requesting PIFU
Step 5: What happens next
- Your request will be reviewed by the vascular anomalies team.
- You will then either receive an appointment or be given clinical advice/treatment if appropriate.
If you do not contact us within 12 months
If you do not request a PIFU appointment within 12 months your child will be discharged back to your GP
Your GP can re refer your child in the future if needed.
Urgent medical advice
PIFU is not for urgent problems.
If your child needs routine medical help, please contact:
- Your GP
Contact information
PIFU appointment bookings
Clinical Nurse Specialists
We are located in the Clarendon Wing, B Floor.
