Accuracy was ranked as the most important characteristic of discharge summaries by both GPs (72%) and junior doctors (88%), while GPs placed significantly higher importance on details of medication changes than junior doctors (p=0.009).
Cross-Sectional (n=78)
No
There is a discrepancy between GPs and junior doctors regarding the importance of reporting medication changes on discharge summaries, highlighting a need for improved training.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify any differences in opinion between UK hospital junior doctors and community General Practitioners (GPs) with respect to the ideal content and characteristics of discharge summaries, and to explore junior doctors' training for and awareness of post-discharge requirements of GPs. METHODS: A piloted anonymous survey was posted to 74 junior doctors at a UK general hospital and 153 local GPs. Doctors were asked to rank discharge summary key content and characteristics in order of importance. GP discharge summary preferences and junior doctor training were also investigated. Non-respondents, identified by non-receipt of a separate participation card, were followed up once. RESULTS: Thirty-six (49%) junior doctors and 42 (28%) GPs returned completed questionnaires. Accuracy was a priority with 24 (72%) GPs and 28 (88%) junior doctors ranking it most important. Details of medication changes were considered most important by 13 (39%) GPs and 4 (12%) junior doctors. Inadequate training in discharge summary writing was reported by 13 (36%) junior doctors. CONCLUSIONS: Although based on small sample sizes from one location, the level and range of differences in perceived importance of reporting medication changes suggests that many discharge summaries may not currently fulfil GP requirements for managing continuity of care. Results indicate that over a third of junior doctors felt inadequately prepared for writing discharge summaries. There may therefore be both a need and professional support for further training in discharge summary writing, requiring confirmatory research.
Yemm et al. (Sat,) conducted a cross-sectional in Discharge summary quality and communication (n=78). Doctor role (General Practitioner vs Junior Doctor) vs. Junior doctors was evaluated on Differences in perceived importance of discharge summary characteristics and content. Accuracy was ranked as the most important characteristic of discharge summaries by both GPs (72%) and junior doctors (88%), while GPs placed significantly higher importance on details of medication changes than junior doctors (p=0.009).
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