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Referrals from general practitioners to a social services department
The Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
|January 1, 1983
Summary
General practitioners (GPs) rarely referred patients to social services, primarily for practical health issues. This study suggests better communication about social work skills could improve GP referrals.
Area of Science:
- Social Work
- General Practice
- Healthcare Services
Background:
- General practitioners (GPs) are key in identifying patient needs.
- Social services departments support individuals facing various challenges.
- Understanding the referral patterns between GPs and social services is crucial for integrated care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the characteristics and patterns of referrals from general practitioners to a social services department.
- To identify barriers and facilitators influencing the use of social work services by GPs.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of one year's referrals from general practitioners to a social services department.
- Analysis of referral rates, client demographics, presenting problems, and service provision.
Main Results:
- Low referral rates were observed, with a bias towards women, the elderly, and less affluent individuals.
- Referrals predominantly concerned practical help for health-related issues.
- A significant proportion of clients were managed by non-social work staff, with interventions being short-term.
Conclusions:
- GPs' limited utilization of social workers may stem from a lack of awareness or skepticism regarding psychodynamic social work skills.
- Enhanced liaison and clearer communication of social workers' professional capabilities are recommended.
- Improving the interface between general practice and social services can optimize patient support.