Perioperative care of Older People undergoing surgery (POPS)

This webpage explains about the POPS clinic and what to expect. If you have any further questions, please contact our administration team on 01792 487 430.

What is POPS?

POPS stands for Perioperative care of Older People undergoing Surgery.

It’s a specialist medical team designed to support people aged 65 and over who are having surgery. The team includes doctors and other healthcare professionals who work together to help manage any medical issues you may have before your operation.

What is the purpose of the POPS clinic?

The POPS clinic is here to help you:

Get the most suitable treatment for your health conditions
Have enough time and information to make informed decisions about your surgery
Be as fit and prepared as possible before your operation
Feel ready for your hospital stay

Why have I been referred to POPS?

You may have been referred by one of the following healthcare professionals:

Your GP
A surgeon
An anaesthetist
A therapist
A clinical nurse specialist

Sometimes, we also use a digital questionnaire sent by text message. It includes questions about your daily activities and level of independence. This helps us identify people who may benefit from a POPS review, even if they weren’t directly referred.

Appointment type

You will be offered either a telephone consultation or a face-to-face clinic appointment based on an assessment of your referral.

What happens at a POPS clinic appointment?

Your appointment will usually last around 30 minutes but may take longer if needed. You will be seen by a doctor (either a consultant or a junior doctor), and your case will be reviewed by a senior consultant afterward. The appointment may include:

A review of your medical history and any medications you take
A physical examination
A chat about your lifestyle and how you manage at home
Some questions about your memory and mood
Simple checks like a urine sample, walking test, weight, or blood pressure while sitting and standing

You might be asked to remove some clothing during the physical exam—just like during a regular GP visit.

What happens after the appointment?

We’ll talk through the next steps with you. These might include:

Arranging further tests, such as blood tests or scans
Referring you to another specialist or therapist
Adjusting your medication or starting new treatments

After your appointment, we will send a summary letter to your GP and share the information with your surgeon. If you’d like, we can also send a copy of the letter to your home.

Where do I need to go for my face-to-face clinic appointment?

POPS Clinic

Diabetes Centre

Morriston Hospital

Heol Maes Eglwys

Swansea

SA6 6NL

Please note, the POPS clinic is held in the Diabetes Centre, but this does NOT relate to any diagnosis of diabetes.

Directions

The POPS clinic is on the ground floor of the CAB building. This is the separate building directly next to Morriston Hospital main entrance, opposite the multi-storey car park. Enter through the double doors that face the carpark, and reception is on the right-hand side.

What do I need to bring?

It may be useful to bring any important correspondence, or prescription lists that you would like to talk about. However, this is not essential as we have access to electronic records from the clinic room computers.

Can I bring a friend or relative?

Yes, it can often be helpful to have a trusted companion at the appointment. A friend, relative, or carer is welcome and may help with communication and clarification.

Useful contact details

For any POPS questions, or to cancel your appointment:

POPS administration team, Monday – Friday, 9am-4.30pm

01792 487 430

For transport:

Non-emergency patient transport ambulance

0300 123 2303

For other patient advice, support, or to raise a concern:

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

01792 531 275