Important Update: Hospital Test Requests & Medication Prescriptions

From 1st August, there will be some important changes to how certain services related to hospital care are provided.

What’s Changing?

We are no longer commissioned to offer the following services on behalf of hospital clinics:

• Blood tests requested by hospital teams

• Suture or clip removal after hospital procedures

These services will now be arranged directly by your hospital team.

What This Means for You

• If you need a blood test or stitch removal after a hospital appointment, please contact your hospital team to arrange this.

• If you're unsure who to speak to, our reception team is happy to help direct you to the right contact.

Ongoing Support From Your GP Practice

We will continue to provide monitoring for certain specialist medications, such as DMARDs (e.g., methotrexate), under a funded arrangement.

For any medications needed after a hospital admission or clinic visit, your hospital team will issue the prescription.
Once your condition is stable, your prescription may be transferred back to us for ongoing care.

This change follows national NHS guidance, aims to improve safety, and should be more convenient for you.

Need Help or Have Questions?

If you need advice or are unsure what to do, you can contact:

North Cumbria Integrated Care – PALS: pals@ncic.nhs.uk
Phone: 01228 814008

Or reach out to your hospital care provider directly.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through these changes together.
We’re here to support you.