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A randomized controlled trial using instant photography to diagnose and manage dermatology referrals.
- Source :
-
Family practice [Fam Pract] 2004 Feb; Vol. 21 (1), pp. 54-6. - Publication Year :
- 2004
-
Abstract
- Background: Fifteen percent of GP consultations are for dermatological conditions; 4% of these are referred to a dermatologist. There are long waiting lists for dermatology appointments. This study examines the value of instant photography in managing dermatology referrals.<br />Objective: The purpose of our study was to compare outcomes of referral for dermatology appointments between patients whose referral letters do or do not include instant photograph(s).<br />Methods: Patients (136), referred to a dermatologist by GPs in two urban health centres, were randomly allocated to study and control groups. Instant photographs, taken by the GP, were included in the referral letters. Control group patients were given out-patient appointments in the usual way. The numbers of study group patients needing an appointment for diagnosis or management and with a changed diagnosis after face-to-face consultation were recorded. Waiting time from referral to appointment or management plan was recorded for both groups.<br />Results: For 63% of the study group (45/71), a diagnosis and a management plan were made without the patient requiring an appointment. This included 38% (27/71) who, after diagnosis and initial management, needed an appointment and 25% (18/71) who did not. The remainder of the study group (37%; 26/71) required a face-to-face consultation. The mean time for formulation of a management plan for patients without an appointment was 17 days (SD = 11); waiting times for appointments in study and control groups were similar (mean 55 days; SD = 40).<br />Conclusions: Instant photography is helpful in managing dermatology referrals and offers the potential to reduce numbers requiring an out-patient appointment by 25%.
- Subjects :
- Adolescent
Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Appointments and Schedules
Child
Child, Preschool
Dermatology statistics & numerical data
Diagnosis, Differential
England
Family Practice
Female
Humans
Interprofessional Relations
Male
Middle Aged
Outcome Assessment, Health Care statistics & numerical data
Skin Diseases therapy
Urban Health Services
Photography
Referral and Consultation statistics & numerical data
Skin Diseases diagnosis
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 0263-2136
- Volume :
- 21
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- MEDLINE
- Journal :
- Family practice
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 14760045
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1093/fampra/cmh112