Community Diagnostics Independent Sector Update-  Referrals, Patient Transport,  Quality Alerts and Digital solutions

Dear GPs and Referrers

  We are sharing a number of important updates and reminders to support high-quality referrals and patient experience across North East London.

1.     Referral Quality and Completeness

Providers are continuing to see some referrals returned due to incomplete or inappropriate information.  To support smoother pathways, please ensure: –

·       Referral forms are fully completed with all required clinical information – Patient requirements (e.g. accessibility needs such as wheelchair access and transport) are clearly specified

·       Referrals align with current service criteria

Providing complete and accurate information will help reduce delays and improve outcomes for patients.

2.     Reducing Rejected Referrals

We are working with providers to better understand patterns in rejected referrals and will be supporting engagement with practices where needed.  In the coming months, this may include: –

·       Practice-level insights and  Guidance

3.     Patient Transport Arrangements

We have identified ongoing challenges with patient transport, particularly affecting elderly patients.  Please ensure: –

·       Transport is arranged for both the outbound and return journey where applicable

·       Patient address – both for outbound ( pick up ) and inbound journey (dropoff – return) are up to date

·        Arrangements for patients to have their accompanying escorts if required

·       Patients are clearly informed about arrangements in advance

This will help reduce missed appointments and improve patient experience whilst using patient transport 

4.     Alerts vs Queries –To ensure appropriate escalation and timely responses: –

·       Quality or safety concerns should be raised as formal alerts

·       General queries should be submitted through standard communication routes to providers i.e. via email or telephone call.

  5. DNA Reduction and Patient Engagement

·       Work is underway with our providers to reduce missed appointments (DNAs), including:

·       Enhanced patient reminders

·       Service adjustments informed by utilisation patterns

Your support in reinforcing appointments with patients and ensuring accurate contact details is appreciated.

·       Digital Solutions

Omnes Healthcare is in the process of launching Docman to securely send patient reports to all referrers across Tower Hamlets, Newham, Waltham Forest, Barking & Dagenham, Havering, and Redbridge.

The rollout will begin in August 2026 and will be introduced gradually across these boroughs to ensure a smooth implementation. Referrers will be notified as the service becomes available in their area.

5.     Working Together – We are committed to working collaboratively with primary care and services to  improve referral processes, support consistent clinical decision-making  and strengthen communication between services

 Thank you for your continued support.  

Mina Epelle

Head of Programmes

NEL diagnostic Team