GPs given freedom to order heart checks direct
GPs normally refer to hospital specialists when heart conditions and lung problems are suspected but it has been announced they are to being given the ability to directly refer for some test and checks.
Direct referal for cancer tests was set up last year.This is now being extended for other conditions.
GPs welcomed the move, but questioned whether there was sufficient testing capacity to cope.
Currently a quarter of people are waiting longer than six weeks for a diagnostic test - before the pandemic this was only 3-4%.
John Maingay of the British Heart Foundation said:
"Many people are facing extremely long waits for heart care in England" .
NHS England said the diagnostic testing capacity was increasing with the roll out of one-stop community testing centres to supplement tests available in hospitals.
A new diagnostic centre is being built in central Coventry and this is set to open in 2025.
Healthwatch Coventry is interested in finding out about your experiences of tests and waiting times. Tell us your experiences by completing our:
"We know how important it is to diagnose people with conditions like these early so they can get the treatment they need to manage their condition well and to prevent more serious conditions or illness from developing".
