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Delayed endoscopy appointments 'prioritised'

DHSC says immediate action to be taken

Health and social care staff have written to more than 150 patients who've not received a follow-up endoscopy appointment in the recommended time period.

Medical records of hundreds of patients were reviewed highlighting delays for many who have yet to see a health professional.

DHSC staff now say those cases will now be prioritised.

Three-hundred-and-twenty-one cases were reviewed by doctors - with 157 found to be outside the optimal period for a follow-up gastrointestinal endoscopy appointment.

Those patients should have been seen to before the end of this month in line with the clinical guidelines.

All are now scheduled to be seen before the end of August and a dedicated helpline has been set-up to assist those affected.

The department says immediate action was taken as soon as the extent of the delays was identified.

Of the 300 plus cases - 66 have been discharged, 59 are not yet due their follow-up, whilst 39 are to be invited to attend an outpatient appointment for a full clinical review.

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