[Quality assurance in rheumatology. Evaluation of a team work model between general practitioners and a...

The intention of the project was to heighten the theoretical and practical skills of general practitioners in the care of patients with musceloskeletal problems. Six general practitioners and a rheumatologist participated. The rheumatologist joined the general practitioners at two health centres, which he visited on two occasions with an interval of six months. The patient and case history were presented by the local physician, and an additional historical and physical examination was performed by the rheumatologist. The physicians were trained in relevant examination techniques. The study was evaluated by means of questionnaires to the doctors and interviews with six patients. The theoretical knowledge of the general practitioners increased by an average of 23%. Both general practitioner and rheumatologist observed improvement in examination techniques. This parameter was not specifically evaluated. The patients appreciated the way in which they were treated. They found that the first and second line health care served as a smooth-working team. The cost of this project was low. The model is being continued at the request of the general practitioners.