title: Communication between GPs and psychiatrists.
abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the quality of GP referral letters to Specialist Psychiatric Clinics. Ninety one referral letters from 24 GPs were analysed. A schedule based on key items of information previously identified as being of importance to Psychiatrists was used in the analysis. The study revealed that these key items were frequently omitted. In addition, information on social history and medical history was inadequately supplied. Poor letter format and quality of notepaper were also identified. Liaison between GPs and Psychiatrists and Vocational Training Programmes would be helpful in addressing these issues.
authors.affiliation: Dept of Psychiatry, St Davnet's Hospital, Monaghan.
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Smyth
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Owens
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Carey
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D011570:Psychiatry; D012017:Referral and Consultation