NHS Leeds CCG Direct Access Non Obstetric Ultrasound (NOUS)

The overarching aims of the service are:

• To ensure Patients receive the right test at the right time and in the most clinically appropriate local setting;
• To ensure diagnostic testing is integrated across pathways of care, that the report and images follow the Patient and that there is no unnecessary duplication of investigation;
• To enable Patients and referring clinicians to access a range of provision according to Patient choice, clinical need and relevant care pathway; and
• To ensure diagnostic tests are appropriate, necessary, clinically correct, of high quality, with timely access and reporting.
• Provide a local, direct access non-obstetric ultrasound service by staff qualified with appropriate levels of skill and experience.
• Provide a patient centred, seamless service initiated by a simple referral route
• Improve access to assessment, diagnostics, treatment and management of care.
• Aid early diagnosis and avoid the need for unnecessary referral into secondary care.
• Ensure diagnostic tests are appropriate, necessary, clinically correct, of high quality, with timely access and test results reporting and information provided to the referring clinician.
• Enable patients and referring clinicians to access a choice of location.
• Work collaboratively with all providers to ensure transfer of care protocols are continually developed and followed which ensure there are seamless pathways according to latest guidance.
• Commissioners are not currently seeking to commission an urgent scanning service. However this may be considered as a service development during the course of this contract period, in discussion with the provider.