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A single-center prospective study analyzing the cardiac referrals made to a tertiary care center in India

Sourabh Aggarwal1, Alka Sharma, Vishal Sharma

  • 1Department of Medicine, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) and GTB Hospital, New Delhi.

Journal of Cardiovascular Disease Research
|August 5, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Referrals for chest pain lack critical information, impacting patient care. Improving referral clarity is essential for efficient healthcare delivery and better outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Healthcare Management
  • Medical Referrals

Background:

  • Healthcare systems globally utilize a three-tier structure: primary, secondary, and tertiary care.
  • Efficient referral systems are vital for optimal healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the quality and clarity of information in referrals for chest pain.
  • To identify deficiencies in referral data provided by outside physicians.

Main Methods:

  • A random sample of 46 referrals for chest pain with suspected myocardial ischemia/infarct was analyzed.
  • Evaluation focused on the extent and clarity of essential information provided in each referral.

Main Results:

  • Significant deficiencies were noted in essential referral data, including indication (8.7%), referral time (4.3%), and vital signs (e.g., respiratory rate 2.17%).
  • Medication details were incomplete, with correct aspirin dosage in 58.69% and clopidogrel in 41.30%.
  • Thrombolysis was indicated for 47.82% of patients but administered in only 54.54% of those cases.

Conclusions:

  • A significant lack of quality and clarity in referral information was identified.
  • These deficiencies likely hinder effective patient management and healthcare coordination.
Abstract

Keywords:
Acute coronary syndromecardiacreferraltertiary care

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