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This is a summary of the NHS Devon policy for varicose vein referral.
A recent audit in Western locality has revealed that varicose vein surgery is being performed on a significant number of Grade 2 varicose veins.
DRSS has been asked by NHS Devon and secondary care to tighten implementation of the current Varicose Veins Policy.
The majority of GP referrals will be unaffected, but there is going to be stricter implementation of the policy wording on "skin change".
It is considered that mild skin changes, for example haemosiderin deposition, thread veins and non varicose eczema are in keeping with Grade 2 veins and will therefore not be suitable for onward referral.
Recurrent thrombophlebitis, significant bleeding from varicosities, lipodermatosclerosis, varicose eczema and active or healed ulceration imply grade 3 or higher and can be referred into secondary care.
There will be a proforma (see referral section) for use by GP practices and further information on these changes in December's Planned Care News.
Referral will not be routinely commissioned for patients with:
NHS Devon will fund specialist advice and surgery if appropriate for the following:
Commissioning policy - Varicose Vein Referral
To receive exceptional funding, a clinical advocate for the patient needs to be able to demonstrate that:
and
Applications for consideration for funding approval should be sent to:
Email: d-icb.ifr-newsdt@nhs.net