As a recently qualified academic GP working out-of-hours (OOH) shifts, I read with interest the debate and analysis section of the October BJGP dedicated to the problem of OOH service provision. How should urgent primary care be provided? Who are the key players and how should they form an effective OOH team? Dr Drinkwater pointed out the two key areas where patients can actively help in alleviating pressure on OOH services: self-management and information. Dr Greenhow emphasised creating a national quality contract running through all providers to ensure coherent clinical governance. Professor Mason proposed the simple solution of a co-located emergency centre staffed with GPs, nurse practitioners, and emergency medicine doctors.
展开▼
