This information is for anyone with axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA), including people with ankylosing spondylitis.
Getting the most out of medical appointments
For bitesize information and advice about getting the most out of medical appointments, visit our Your SpAce webpage.
Patient Initiated Follow-up
What is PIFU?
Rheumatology teams see people with many kinds of inflammatory arthritis. Usually rheumatology teams arrange appointments with patients at set intervals to see how they’re doing, and talk about their symptoms and treatment. PIFU (Patient Initiated Follow-up) is a different way of organising appointments. It’s designed to give you choice over how and when you see your rheumatology team. With PIFU, rheumatology patients can ask for appointments when they need them, instead of them only being at set intervals.
Who is PIFU for?
PIFU is generally designed for people who have been diagnosed over 1-2 years, and who are managing their condition well. Rather than having a regular review appointment scheduled, PIFU enables patients to request an appointment when needed. The intention is to reduce unnecessary appointments, as well as free up capacity to see people who are struggling as and when they need it.
Does PIFU work the same way in all hospitals?
Different hospitals and departments will work in different ways. If you are being moved onto a PIFU pathway, your healthcare professionals should explain how it works. Make sure to ask your healthcare professional:
- How to get in contact
- Examples of when to get in contact (for example, if you’re struggling to manage your flares)
- When you will have a routine appointment to review your axial SpA
You shouldn’t lose contact with your healthcare professionals – when you move to PIFU, agree when the team should contact you if you haven’t made contact already. You can download this resource and ask your healthcare professional to help you fill it in.
Learn more about PIFU in the following video:
Making medication decisions
For support in making decisions about medication for your axial SpA, visit our Your SpAce webpage.