The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has recently reported on the findings of a 2018 nationwide survey conducted by Choosing Wisely Australia. The survey into “Why health professionals request a test, treatment or procedure” found that 54% of general practitioners and 61% of specialists listed difficulties in accessing information from doctors in other settings, including results as a contributing factor into undertaking unnecessary treatment.
The results demonstrate that the challenges faced in accessing records could be a significant contributor to undertaking avoidable tests, treatments and procedures. According to CEO of Choosing Wisely Australia, there is a drive to improve communication across care settings and ultimately reduce unnecessary medical treatment and tests.
Read RACGP’s news alert here and the results of the survey and report here.