OOHs problems are not going to be solved by public education attempts or
diverting patients from A&E to GPs or vice versa.
Here's my proposal for the future!
All OOH services are based in A&E depts, with GPs working alongside A&E
docs. All patients are triaged as being either A&E or GP fodder. Deputising
services & Co-OPs could be relocated to work in A&E depts & where failing
brought into line with regard to quality standards.
There would be occasional need for the GP to leave the dept and visit those
who really need a home visit, but this could be minimised by bringing
patients in by minibus/taxi/PTS ambulance.
This could certainly work in urban areas; not sure about more rural areas.
We could share certain expenses & even generate income, by providing a
'Deputising service' run by the NHS trust.
Have you seen the NHS Direct book which is winging its way to households. I
think it will increase the number of people turning up at A&E as it hardly
mentions contacting Primary Care!!
We could all benefit from working alongside each other, rather than
indulging in sniping!
Anyone fancy putting a proposal forward to the DOH!
Best wishes & look after yourselves.
John Apps
GP, BASICS & ex A&E Clinical Ass
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