Allergy referral process - Update September 2026
Dear Practices
There has been ongoing confusion about the Allergy Referral Process resulting in patients being bounced between their GP and Heartlands due to a lack of clarity.
You will recall that in February 2024 the LMC confirmed that the access to Cardiff allergy services and immunology specialist service had been decommissioned. All new SBUHB referrals were to be sent to West Sandwell & Birmingham NHS Trust via the Prior Approval route as an interim arrangement, whilst alternative commissioning options were explored.
The HB have not commissioned a local service and no timeline has been provided. GPs are expected to continue to refer via the IFPR process and the agreed process with Heartlands is as follows:
Prior Approval request completed and submitted to SBUHB at: planning.office@wales.nhs.uk
Decision made by SBUHB and decision letter sent to the requesting GP via email
Requesting GP then EMAIL the allergy referral PLUS a copy of the above-mentioned decision letter to: I&AMedicalSecretaries@uhb.nhs.uk
Heartlands will receive and list the referral - If they do not receive a copy of the decision letter for approval, then they will not be able to list the patient.
We have updated the Prior Approval Application Form (attached) to include the telephone number, the email address and prepopulated answers to try and minimise the administrative process.
Many thanks
MLMC Executive Team