Direct Access for GPs

Immediate access to an ECG

Patients across Lanarkshire can get immediate access to an ECG if their GP is concerned about their heart health.

The direct access service gives GPs the opportunity to send a patient directly from the surgery to the hospital for a reading of their heart (ECG) if they feel it is urgent.

How does it work?

If you visit your GP and he is feels you need an ECG urgently he can call the hospital while you are there and arrange an immediate appointment. If your ECG is normal you will be sent back to your GP who will investigate other causes for your symptoms.

However if your ECG indicates a problem, you may:

Have further tests carried out, such as an echocardiograph
Start on a treatment plan
Be given an appointment to return for an outpatients appointment
Be admitted to the cardiology ward

Whatever the result of your ECG, this service means those patients most in need can start treatment or further investigation into their condition quicker and those who have a healthy heart are not put on the waiting list for an outpatient appointment.