UPDATE | GP X-ray at Whipps
Barts Health are delighted to announce the completion of the GP X-ray refurbishment at Whipps Cross Hospital. The newly upgraded X-ray facility features state-of-the-art technology, enhancing their ability to provide high-quality diagnostic imaging. This improvement will lead to faster, more accurate results and a better overall patient experience.
Key features of the refurbishment include:
- Advanced imaging technology enables precise diagnostics
- A second X-ray room is available to facilitate a walk-in service, specifically for community patients referred for an X-ray by their GP
Walk-In service launch
- The walk-in service will be available starting Monday, 15 July 2024
- Operating times: 09:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday
This service is for all X-ray referrals. Please note that they will be operating a walk-in service only. This will allow them to improve patient access to their GP X-ray service and reduce any delays in your care.
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Important information for GPs
Compliance and Guidelines:
Under the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IR[ME]R) 2017, Radiographers, as practitioners, have a statutory duty to justify X-ray requests. To ensure compliance, please refer to the iRefer guidelines provided by The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR).
Barts Health value their patients’ time and aim to provide the best imaging options. Accurate and complete clinical information on the request is essential for vetting by their department and for the reporting clinician to address the clinical question effectively.
If an X-ray referral is rejected due to insufficient clinical information or non-compliance with RCR guidelines, their department will notify the referring GP by providing the patient with a referral rejection letter on the same day of the visit.
Action Required:
- Remind patients that there is no appointment system, and they operate a full walk in service only from Monday 15 July.
- Ensure all X-ray requests comply with RCR guidelines.
- Ensure all referrals are made on tQuest.
- Provide detailed clinical information to facilitate accurate vetting and reporting.
Please note that GP X-ray requests are only valid for 3 weeks from the time of requesting. Thank you for your cooperation and support in delivering the best care to their patients. For further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact them: bartshealth.communications@nhs.net