New Integrated Lower GI Pathway

The new Integrated Lower GI Pathway for patients with low risk bowel symptoms will be launched w/c 4 March. This incorporates the use of Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) as a replacement for the Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBt) and Calprotectin.

The test is will be available for low risk patients, meaning they do not have to have to be showing obvious signs of rectal bleeding. Other symptoms that may qualify patients for testing are (dependent on age): abdominal pain or weight loss, change in bowel habit or iron deficiency anaemia, and anaemia - even in absence of iron deficiency.

GPs should start to receive the FIT kits during February in preparation for the go-live date. Kits will be issued in primary care and then posted to Sheffield Teaching Hospitals where the analysis will be undertaken. GPs will receive the results electronically via ICE. A series of webex’s has been undertaken to keep primary and secondary care abreast of the developments. The next educational sessions are being planned for February/March.

For more information please contact Clare Glazebrook: clare.glazebrook@nhs.net