Aust Fam Physician
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A significant amount of attention has been paid to the increase in emergency department (ED) presentations in Australia. Questions have arisen regarding whether all of those presenting to the ED are actually in need of true emergency services. Under-standing the characteristics of those patients who may be cared for in non-emergency settings is important for future health system strategies. The aim of this study was to identify age-related variation in primary care type emergency department (ED) presentations over time. ⋯ There are marked differences by age in the proportion of triage category 4 or 5 ED presentations that met the criteria for primary care type visits. These results indicate it was primarily younger patients who presented to the ED with non-urgent conditions. Most might be able to safely receive care in a primary care setting.
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Thoracic imaging is commonly ordered in general practice. Guidelines exist for ordering thoracic imaging but few are specific for general practice. ⋯ Interpretation of thoracic imaging is best done using a systematic approach. Radiological investigation is not warranted in un-complicated upper respiratory tract infections or asthma, minor trauma or acute-on-chronic chest pain.
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Same-sex-attracted women describe lower satisfaction with their general practice care, compared with heterosexual women. Yet, they have greater health inequalities, which requires effective care. A lack of disclosure of sexual orientation to general practitioners (GPs) may be one factor influencing these issues. ⋯ Facilitating disclosure should be a shared responsibility between same-sex attracted women and their usual GP. This must be accompanied by improved GP knowledge and affirming attitudes regarding specific health needs of same-sex attracted women.
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Virtual forms of communication (eg texting) can support patients and may contribute to better care. However, these informal communication methods may intrude on the doctor’s leisure time and undermine standards of care if they replace face-to-face consultations. Texting may cross boundaries in potentially unprofessional ways, especially when particular patients are favoured with this privilege. ⋯ This makes it important for practices to develop policies supporting the responsible use of virtual communication. Such policies should:clarify (for patients and GPs) when its use is appropriate accommodate doctors’ individual preferences regarding technology provide guidance regarding GPs’ duties, especially for interactions that do not allow full evaluation of patients. GPs may wish to have specific criteria for providing patients with this degree of access, set very clear indications and contraindications to its use, explain the potential pitfalls, and ensure that text messages augment good care rather than replace it.