Prevention of heart disease in general practice: the use of a risk score

Between 1987 and 1988 seven general practices took part in a pilot study of a predictive risk score for ischaemic heart disease in men aged 40-59 years. The aim was to assess the feasibility and usefulness of this score as part of a coronary prevention programme. The score was generally well received by practice nurses and general practitioners, and found to be helpful as a method of focusing preventive activity. Most chose to reveal the score to the patient, although there was some concern that this could lead to false reassurance being perceived by those with a low score but remediable risk factors. Practitioners were able to use the score as a method for identifying a priority group for intervention, and it is concluded that the risk score is a useful component of health checks.