Referrals to a rheumatology unit: an evaluation of the views of patients, general practitioners, and consultants.
AUTOR(ES)
Walker, D J
RESUMO
One hundred and twelve randomly selected patients referred to a rheumatology unit were studied, using structured questionnaires, to gain the views of patients, general practitioners (GPs), and the consultants. There were differences in perception between these respondents on the reason for referral. Major diagnostic changes were made in less than 10% of cases. Nearly all patients claimed that some aspect of their disease had been improved as a result of the appointment. Satisfaction with the communication aspects of the appointment contributed more to patients' overall satisfaction than did improvement in pain or disability. General practitioners' objectives were also met if communication with patients was satisfactory. In the management of chronic disease communication is important and should be recognised as such.
ACESSO AO ARTIGO
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1004584Documentos Relacionados
- Emergency admission of patients to general surgical beds: attitudes of general practitioners, surgical trainees, and consultants in Liverpool, UK.
- Outpatients and their doctors: a study of patients, potential patients, general practitioners and hospital doctors
- Evaluation of specialists' outreach clinics in general practice in England: process and acceptability to patients, specialists, and general practitioners.
- Doctors as patients: postal survey examining consultants and general practitioners adherence to guidelines
- Patients with urinary tract infection: proposed management strategies of general practitioners, microbiologists and urologists.
