Information on Loughborough

Heart Tests Made Easier

Posted on 07/02/2008
P. Klein

person holding a heart

Patients from Loughborough with suspected heart problems can now undergo diagnostic tests within days of seeing their GP without going to hospital.

The Direct Access Diagnostic Service (DADS) allows GPs to book patients into clinics to undergo echocardiograms at five venues throughout Leicester and Leicestershire. Patients can also receive text message reminders for their appointments to help cut DNA (did not attend) rates.

The scheme means Loughborough patients are seen much quicker and can be referred closer to home without having to see a hospital consultant first.

Previously patients would be referred to an out-patient clinic at hospital before being referred for tests and could wait months. Under DADS the patient will receive a call within 48 hours of their GP’s referral to arrange an appointment, within a maximum of 10 days. The results are then sent electronically to the GP within two days.

National research shows schemes of this kind can cut referrals to hospital consultants by up to 85 per cent helping to free up specialists to concentrate on the patients who need specialist care and making sure that patients who need specialist care are identified as soon as possible and referred on appropriately with the essential tests already undertaken.

Jane French, joint associate director for 18 weeks delivery, said: “It’s a quick non-invasive procedure – people can have the test and walk out.

“This is all part of our efforts to provide quick and convenient access to diagnostic tests, which for most patients will provide reassurance and avoid weeks or even months of uncertainty.

“We are currently looking to expand the number of venues and would like to expand the types of diagnostic tests we offer.”