[Digital consultation between the general practitioner and medical specialist]

Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2023 Jul 12:167:D7497.
[Article in Dutch]

Abstract

Digital interdisciplinary consultation is an asynchronous form of consultation in which the general practitioner (GP) can consult a medical specialist. We provide an overview of the various platforms available in the Netherlands and we performed a literature review on the effect on referrals, patient satisfaction and satisfaction of the GP and medical specialist. Until October 2022, we traced nine different platforms that enable digital interdisciplinary consultation between the GP and medical specialist in the Netherlands. We identified nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and three systematic reviews until the COVID-19 period. The RCTs did not show a significant effect on our outcome measures. Observational studies on the other hand show a reduction of referrals by the use of digital interdisciplinary and have high satisfaction rates among GPs, medical specialists and patients because it is perceived as efficient and it improves access to specialized care for the patient.

Publication types

  • Review
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • General Practitioners*
  • Humans
  • Medicine*
  • Netherlands
  • Referral and Consultation