Response to open access endoscopy findings by general practitioners guidelines need education for implementation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy
• General Practice

Background:

• Open access endoscopy provides valuable diagnostic information for general practitioners.
• Effective patient management hinges on accurate interpretation of endoscopic findings and appropriate follow-up actions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess general practitioners' (GPs) referral rates for specific endoscopic findings.
• To evaluate GP response to findings of Barrett's oesophagus, gastric ulcers, and colonic adenomatous polyps, conditions with potential for malignancy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of endoscopy unit records from Ninewells Hospital, Dundee (January 1 - December 31, 1995).
• Identification of patients undergoing open access upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
• Analysis of case notes for patients diagnosed with Barrett's oesophagus, gastric ulcers, or colonic polyps.

Main Results:

• 1158 upper gastro-intestinal endoscopies and 293 sigmoidoscopies were performed via the open access service.
• Referral rates: Barrett's oesophagus 56%, Gastric ulcers 56%, Adenomatous polyps 88%, Non-adenomatous polyps 12.5%.
• Guidelines alone did not guarantee high referral rates.

Conclusions:

• General practitioner education is crucial for optimizing the use of open access endoscopy.
• Effective interpretation and management of endoscopic findings require ongoing training and support for GPs.