Under plans by four Strategic Health Authorities in response to Lord Darzi’s NHS blueprint, GPs will be given enhanced access to diagnostic testing and surgical referral.
The four SHAs – South West, South Central, Yorkshire and the Humber and East of England – set out 10-year plans in which community-based diagnostic testing is a main feature.
The complicated process of accessing payments for clinical work done away from hospitals was also highlighted as a stumbling block which requires attention.
East of England made a commitment for patients to be able to access blood testing and further diagnostic procedures at GP practices, with GPs able to refer directly for surgery.
The plan says: “Where the diagnostic results can be assessed by a GP they will be and GPs will be able to refer directly for surgery depending on the nature of the diagnosis and treatment required.”
Details of how best to provide lifestyle checks for 40-74 year olds are also set in the documents.
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