Use of standardised assessment forms in referrals to hepatology outpatient services: implications for accurate triaging of patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Conclusions. Hepatitis C virus accounts for the majority of non-urgent referrals waiting to access hepatology outpatient consultations. Using a standardised assessment form as part of the referral process provides more information on comorbidities and risk factors and facilitates more accurate triaging of clinical urgency. Wider adoption of this strategy may increase appropriate access to hepatology services and reduce the future burden of cirrhosis and hepatocellular cancer. What is known about the topic? Little published data are available that describe the content and standard of hepatology referrals, or the urgency with which these patients need to be reviewed. Inadequate clinical information impairs the ability to accurately triage referrals and may lead to delays in access. What does the paper add? Almost 70% of reviewed referrals were for management of patients with hepatitis C virus infection, confirming this condition remains a major priority area in liver disease. Clinical information provided by referring clinicians was often incomplete, impairing the ability to accurately triage referrals. Only a minority of referrals provided information about relevant comorbidities (alcohol intake, injecting drug use, mental health issues and obesity) that negatively impact on the progression of liver disease or the response to antiviral treatment. What are the implications for practitioners? Hepatitis C virus remains a major health priority area in liver disease, increasing the...

Source: Australian Health Review - April 1, 2013 Category: Hospital Management Authors: Horsfall L, Macdonald G, Scott I, Skoien R, Khatun M, Moss C, Seligman C, Kardash C, Poxon V, Powell EE Tags: Aust Health Rev Source Type: research