Irish journal of medical science
-
Despite changes in techniques and management, little has been published comparing hip replacement surgery over a three-decade time span. ⋯ The incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolus (PE) and length of hospital stay has fallen. Blood loss had changed little but fewer patients receive blood transfusion.
-
Recent health policy emphasises the involvement of the consumer and carer in health and social care issues. Demographic projections predict a rise in the number of elderly people in Ireland and the number of elderly people with a mental illness. The identification of gaps in service provision should result in appropriate planning for this group in the future. ⋯ This study highlighted the aspects of the service that carers value, which should help guide future service development.
-
Little is known regarding patients' views and levels of satisfaction with out-of-hours care in Irish general practice despite significant recent changes in service delivery. ⋯ The majority of patients are satisfied with the current out-of-hours service. Telephone consultation rates are significantly lower than other countries. These findings need to be considered before the widespread introduction of systems involving increased telephone consultations.