Professor Mayur Lakhani, Chair of the Royal
College of General Practitioners, says:
“Endoscopy is an important part of the
armamentarium of tests available to GPs. I am concerned that this
report shows wide variation in waiting times, quality of service
and reporting arrangements. A 26 week delay as reported in some
areas is unacceptable.
“We support the Healthcare Commission’s call
for an expansion of trained endoscopists but are disappointed that
they did not make recommendations about increased provision in the
community, for example through accredited General Practitioners
with Special Interests (GPwSIs). A step change is needed in the
provision and quality of endoscopy services, and GP commissioners
should be given the opportunity to influence developments.
“As a practising GP, I would also like to have
seen stronger recommendations about improving the patient
experience. Endoscopy, particularly of the large bowel, is an
unpleasant experience and patients need careful preparation,
support and aftercare.
I have known of vulnerable patients bewildered
by advice and medication sent to them from hospitals in preparation
for endoscopy, and then not knowing what to do if they feel unwell
after the test.”
Ends
For further information contact Lorna Fletcher
on 0207 3443136 or email lfletcher@rcgp.org.uk