However, it should be the case that they receive a copy of everything that is sent about them, as is already advised in CG138, including their current care plan after every formal review. The committee attempted to define what would be included in the summary of the patients status and how the care plan would be formulated, but appreciated that this would vary depending on where the patient was in the HF pathway, and other individual factors. The committee agreed that it is essential that the patient is given a named contact and knows who is going to follow them up and when, along with current medication. After contact details and follow-up arrangements, the most important things to include were thought to be the diagnosis, current treatment, red flag signs that HF is deteriorating, and signposting to further information / sources of support. Where appropriate, it would also include aetiology of HF, social circumstances, carer needs, how they can access rehabilitation and other resources. The committee acknowledged that the full summary of status and care plan may not be ready to provide to the patient during their appointment in order that they can take a copy home with them, and agreed that it may comprise a letter to the patient and GP following the appointment. Letters should use appropriate language to communicate to the GP, with a glossary or similar to make them accessible to patients. It is not intended that two sets of letters should be produced. Contact/Access: It was seen as particularly important that patients and their carers know where to get support in both routine and urgent circumstances, as per the current patient experience guideline. Pathways could be devised Chronic Heart Failure Referral and approach to care NICE 2018. All rights reserved. Subject to Notice of rights. 