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At the beginning of this week, the UK government announced plans to give GPs more authority by enabling them to make direct referrals for diagnostic tests related to a range of complaints including breathlessness – a key symptom of PH.

The move, which is part of the government’s wider bid to tackle NHS waiting lists, aims to speed up - where appropriate - access to tests by allowing patients to receive them without having to see a specialist consultant first.

Whilst full details are yet to emerge, it was announced as part of plans which also include expanding the network of diagnostic centres and surgical hubs in communities, and giving patients more choice around appointments.

PHA UK Chair Dr Iain Armstrong said:

“We welcome the news that GPs will be able to make direct referrals for diagnostic tests for those experiencing breathlessness, but in this disease area, being referred for the right tests is what will make the difference.

Breathlessness is a symptom of multiple conditions, and too many people with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are often misdiagnosed with asthma, delaying access to vital treatment. If the correct tests - such as echocardiogram - are carried out and interpreted quickly and expertly, it is this which will help reduce the time to diagnosis.

Delayed diagnosis of this life-limiting condition is a huge problem, with people waiting just as long now as they were 15 years ago. Our latest research showed 32% of patients had to see four or more doctors before receiving their diagnosis, and for 51%, it took over a year to be diagnosed after first noticing symptoms. For 24%, it took over three years, and these concerning statistics have not changed for a decade-and-a-half.  

Earlier diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension means patients get quicker access to treatment, prolonging lives and reducing the huge burden of symptoms that come with this disease. It’s clear that something needs to change, and we hope this move to allow GPs to make direct referrals first will make a difference.

However, whilst the move is welcomed, it’s important that further support is given to general practice to ensure the timeliness and accuracy of such referrals. With lengthy waits for appointments, access to GPs is also a key consideration in this - alongside the need for referrals to the correct tests.”

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