South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde
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An intervention study was conducted to assess the effect of a pro forma letter on the quality of referral letters from general practitioners at a rural hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, and on the quality and rate of replies received. ⋯ Pro forma letters improve the quality of referral letters, but on their own do not improve the rate and quality of replies. Personal contact between referring doctors and consultants would seem to be an important factor in respect of the latter.
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Letter Comparative Study
Total intravenous or inhalational anaesthesia--a cost comparison.
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To test the practicality, safety and benefits of major cardiothoracic surgery in two rural hospitals. ⋯ The exercise was a resounding success in both measurable and general terms. All operations were successfully performed, with very low adverse outcomes (morbidity, mortality) and good quality of life for all the subjects. The safety and cost-effectiveness of cardiothoracic surgery under primitive conditions were demonstrated. The standard of patient care improved, and local staff acquired good basic skills in patient care. The referral patterns changed for the better and the confidence of the community in the services was enhanced. The risk/benefit ratio of the exercise was commendable. The feasibility of an extended service was encouraging.