FOI_7638

Internal Reference Number: FOI_7638

Date Request Received: 28/12/2023 00:00:00

Date Request Replied To: 08/01/2024 00:00:00

This response was sent via: By Email

Request Summary: “Getting it Right First Time” (GIRFT) pathway for suspected Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES).

Request Category: Legal


Question Number 1: We are writing to make a formal request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 regarding the Trusts implementation of NHS England’s “Getting it Right First Time” (GIRFT) pathway for suspected Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES). Has your Trust implemented GIRFT pathway for suspected CES in all of its hospitals.

Answer To Question 1: No

Question Number 2: If the answer to Q1 is affirmative, please advise when it was implemented and advise on the following: I. Number of CES related training to staff in the period since implemented compared to the same period duration prior to implementation; II. Number of MRI scans undertaken for suspected CES in the period since implemented compared to the same period duration prior to implementation; III. Average time between MRI referral and performance of the scan for suspected CES in the period since implemented compared to the same period duration prior to implementation; IV. Number of patients who underwent surgery for CES in the period since implemented compared to the same period duration prior to implementation; V. Breakdown of feedback raised by clinicians with your Trust regarding implementation of the pathway including total number of clinicians who provided feedback, whether positive or negative and its nature (for example resource issue /training/delays/patient safety).

Answer To Question 2: N/A

Question Number 3: If the answer to Q1 is negative, please state: I. If only some hospitals within your Trust implemented the pathway, please state which ones did not and the reason why. II. What other policy is followed with regards to the diagnosis and management of CES? III. Are the plans for the pathway to be implemented in the future and if so when? If not, why not? IV. Breakdown of feedback raised by clinicians with your Trust regarding lack of implementation of the pathway including total number of clinicians who provided feedback, whether positive or negative and its nature (for example resource issue/training/delays/patient safety)

Answer To Question 3: We are a single hospital Trust, there is no provision of MRI scanning between 8pm and 8am. CES scans can be arranged OOH for 9am in the morning. Urgent cases are transferred to a nearby tertiary centre. No significant feedback.

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Our staff at Salisbury District Hospital have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.