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Effectiveness of open-access endoscopy in routine primary-care practice
Roger J Charles1, Gregory S Cooper, Richard C K Wong
1The Division of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University, Ohio 44106, USA.
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
|January 31, 2003
Summary
Open-access endoscopy allows direct patient referrals for procedures. This study found it effective with high compliance, though result communication needs improvement.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Primary Care Medicine
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Direct referral for endoscopic procedures, known as open-access endoscopy, is increasingly common.
- The impact of this practice on routine patient care remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of open-access endoscopy in a primary care setting.
- To assess post-procedure communication, adherence to recommendations, and need for further consultations.
Main Methods:
- A review of medical records for 168 patients undergoing open-access endoscopy.
- Evaluation of primary care physician communication, adherence, and subsequent consultation needs over 6 months.
Main Results:
- 77% of procedures met appropriate use guidelines.
- 82% had office follow-up, with 61% documenting result discussion.
- Compliance with recommendations was high (75% diagnostic, 90% therapeutic).
Conclusions:
- Open-access endoscopy is effective, leading to infrequent GI consultations and high compliance.
- Improvement is needed in documenting the communication of endoscopic results to patients.