Abstract
One hundred and twelve randomly selected patients referred to a rheumatology unit were studied, using structured questionnaires, to gain the views of patients, general practitioners (GPs), and the consultants. There were differences in perception between these respondents on the reason for referral. Major diagnostic changes were made in less than 10% of cases. Nearly all patients claimed that some aspect of their disease had been improved as a result of the appointment. Satisfaction with the communication aspects of the appointment contributed more to patients' overall satisfaction than did improvement in pain or disability. General practitioners' objectives were also met if communication with patients was satisfactory. In the management of chronic disease communication is important and should be recognised as such.
Full text
PDF
Selected References
These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.
- Gibson T., Clark B. Use of simple analgesics in rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis. 1985 Jan;44(1):27–29. doi: 10.1136/ard.44.1.27. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Marsh G. N. Are follow-up consultations at medical outpatient departments futile? Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1982 Apr 17;284(6323):1176–1177. doi: 10.1136/bmj.284.6323.1176. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Sverdrup B., Allebeck P., Allander E. Tentative diagnoses among referrals versus diagnoses established at the Department of Rheumatology. Scand J Rheumatol. 1983;12(4):377–378. doi: 10.3109/03009748309099745. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Taggart A. J., Hill J., Astbury C., Dixon J. S., Bird H. A., Wright V. Sulphasalazine alone or in combination with D-penicillamine in rheumatoid arthritis. Br J Rheumatol. 1987 Feb;26(1):32–36. doi: 10.1093/rheumatology/26.1.32. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]