NHS managers restricting access to crucial scans and tests

[Jazzy]

NHS managers are trying to restrict access to crucial tests and scans in a move that could mean diseases being diagnosed later.



An investigation has found that a quarter of Primary Care Trusts are either investigating how many patients individual GP practices send for examinations or looking for ways to reduce the numbers.



In addition, a handful are identifying “excessive” use of the tests or setting upper targets while others have completely stopped letting doctors have direct access to the scans.



Experts said the tactics could lead to patients being diagnosed later with diseases such as cancer, which research shows lowers survival chances.



Dr Clare Gerada, head of the Royal College of GPs, said: “This is about money and finances driving behaviour by the PCT – not about putting patients first.”



Cancer Research UK’s director of policy, Sarah Woolnough, added: “It is very worrying to hear of PCTs setting referral targets and decommissioning direct access to tests that could speed up a cancer diagnosis.”



Meanwhile, official figures show that even patients who are being referred to hospitals for tests are being forced to wait longer than a year ago.



Full story: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/h...icting-access-to-crucial-scans-and-tests.html