Protocols in ambulatory care

Protocols offer a mechanism for bringing together two major trends in outpatient care. The first trend is the delegation of certain clinical tasks and responsibilities to health workers other than physicians, and to patients themselves. The second trend is the movement toward standard-setting, peer review, audit and quality assurance, and cost-effectiveness of medical practices. Most of the studies of the use of protocols have been with nurse practitioners, physician assistants, office nurses, and health workers. These studies indicate that non-physicians using protocols - in comparison with physicians using traditional methods - give care that is equally thorough, and that leads to comparably accurate diagnosis treatment, and appropriate referral to physicians. Additionally, health workers guided by protocols achieve relief of patients; symptoms and patient satisfaction, and provide care that is efficient in terms of practitioner time, medication, and test ordering. Consequently, health workers using protocols can reduce the cost of care. Protocols have been developed for use in out-patient areas in both developed and developing nations. Protocosl can also be easily audited as part of a quality assurance program, effecting even further saving in costly provider time.