Effective communication between GPs and Hospitals

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Effective communication between GPs and Hospitals

• Foundation programme 29th November 2005

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Why do we need to talk to each other?

• Over 90 of patients seen in hospital have a GP
• GPs often hold detailed patient information
• Communication with patients is taught, but
  working with doctors and nurses in primary care
  is often assumed but not taught
• What problems have YOU noticed?

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When GPs contact hospitals

• Junior on a team may be the first to be contacted
• Switchboard doesnt always know who should be
  called, make allowances for this
• If you are the right team, how urgent is it?
• What is GP actually asking for?
• Alternatives to admission?

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Who else needs to know?

• Other members of your team
• On call team
• The ward
• AE
• Appointments
• Secretary

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Discharge information

• Timely and legible
• Patient can be identified
• Ward / Consultant / Dates
• Diagnosis / Treatment
• Outpatient appointment?
• What does the patient know?
• Do not rely on the patient, fax may be best

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What do GPs need to be phoned about?

• Self discharge
• Complex medication needs
• Special monitoring after discharge
• Deaths

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Letters to GPs after OP visit

• Timely
• Main diagnosis and medication especially changes
• Planned treatment
• What follow up should GP do?

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What can GPs tell hospitals?

• Between 8 am and 6.30pm we can give you
  information about
• PMH
• Medication
• Social background
• Existing care packages
• Contact details of relatives

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Further reading

• RCP standards on discharge letters
• Student BMJ 1999 September

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Finally

• Two quotes from local GPs

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