We are unable to process requests that contain any patient identifiable information. Please do not include anywhere on the form, nor attachments, any patient identifiable information. This includes anything that may refer to, or identifies, the patient’s name, address, nhs/clincial system reference numbers, details of relatives, carers or those they are guardians for.

IFRs will not be handled as urgent on grounds that waiting until the next IFR panel is inconvenient or problematic for the patient or requesting clinician. Pre-booked appointment is also not an acceptable reason for clinical urgency. Before considering an IFR as urgent careful consideration will be given as to whether sufficient information is available for the IFR Panel to make a decision without compromising any of the principles upon which decisions should be made.

If your IFR request is considered to be at a level of such clinical urgency that it cannot wait until the next scheduled panel date, this form must be completed and submitted together with the standard IFR form.

An Urgent (virtual) Panel will be convened and a decision will be made within 3 working days from the date the case is received by the IFR team, on condition that all the information to enable the panel to make a decision has been provided.