NHS Sheffield CCG : Cardiology Diagnostics (Ambulatory ECG) Services AQP

Descriptions

The aim of the Service is to aid early diagnostics and avoid the need for unnecessary referral to secondary care, or to support the shift of activity into a primary care setting. It is important that the use of 24 hour ECG is governed by evidence-based guidelines. The Service will provide a 24 hour ECG test with appropriate clinical interpretation for GPs who wish to investigate patients at low risk of significant cardiac pathology, who have previously had a 12-lead ECG and for whom they wish to investigate further. The care pathway being commissioned consists of pre-appointment communication with patients, the diagnostic investigation and a report being sent to the referrer which covers a description of the investigation and an interpretation of the results. A detailed management plan is not required. Structured reporting will be encouraged to support local referrers in their options for further clinical management. The Service will need to be fully quality assured, validated and supported by the Commissioner. The Provider must aim to provide an excellent patient experience during all parts of the process - to include the examination and the administrative services. For the term of the current AQP Contract period payment will be made in accordance with a local tariff . No revenue guarantees will be offered and Service Providers must take the commercial risk on referral levels.