PIP consultation before GP sends Factual Report

In this case THEY HAVE contacted his GP though,
I understand that they only do this under special
circumstances.Are they not required to do this?

His GP stated in a letter to them that that the
the patient self harms. and has suicidal thoughts
I suspect that the information was requested
because of this

{to quote given reasons for requesting additional info
in the guidance given to them}

''because the addition of key evidence will negate the need for a consultation or where they feel that a consultation may be unhelpful because the claimant lacks insight into their condition or a consultation may be stressful to the claimant''


In these circumstances they appear to be mandated to
collect evidence and if they fail to do so can this not be used
in an appeal against them?