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An analysis of general practice referral behaviour to psychiatric out-patient clinics

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 June 2014

Teresa Carey ,
John Owens ,
Pauline Mulligan  and
Damien Moran
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Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyse general practice referrals to psychiatric out-patient clinics and their relation to practice and patient variables.

Method: Retrospective analysis of new episode attendances at out-patient services over a three year period was undertaken. Referring practices were examined for referral rates, single or group practice and the presence of Vocational/Psychiatric training within the practice.

Results: Referral rates were similar to national rates, but were lower than other jurisdictions. There was a tendency for group practices to have lower referral rates.

Conclusions: There was considerable difference between practices in referral rates. These differences were significantly related to GP vocational training.

Keywords

General practice referralsPsychiatric outpatientclinics
Type
Audit
Information
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine , Volume 11 , Issue 4 , December 1994 , pp. 177 - 179
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1994

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