One size doesn't fit all - GPs and physicians innovate to improve patient care

One size doesn't fit all - GPs and physicians innovate to improve patient care The report Patient care: A unified approach, highlights nine case studies where GPs and physicians have worked closely together to produce new and integrated services. The case studies span a wide range of services in England and Wales, covering different specialties, different population groups and different ways of addressing complex issues. Examples include:

A clinic for patients with respiratory problems at North Bristol Lung Centre, Southmead Hospital, enables GPs and community matrons to refer patients the same day. A dedicated mobile phone also put GPs in easy contact with consultants. The scheme reduced referrals to hospital and enabled patients to be treated closer to home

In Northamptonshire, GPs from 10 practices now have a GP trained to undertake cardiology care within the practice. The project resulted in fewer hospital referrals, greater patient satisfaction with the service and improved patient understanding of their medical condition

A GP with a special interest in dermatology and a consultant dermatologist work together with specialist nurses and other staff at Sunderland Dermatology Centre to provide routine care to patients suffering from non-urgent conditions. The project resulted in lower waiting times, and 100% of patients would recommend the service to others. Royal College of General Practitioners