Collaboration in urological practice in the new millennium.
The aim of this paper is to highlight areas in which urologists collaborate with other healthcare practitioners and to identify further areas of beneficial collaboration. A review of the literature using Medline search and the authors  clinical experience. There is close collaboration with the radiologists in urological investigations and embolization of tumours, aspiration of cysts and abscesses as well as obtaining biopsy specimens. Cross referral of patients occurs between urologists, gynaecologists, oncologists and radiotherapists. Technological advances enabling different specialist to master certain procedures like ultrasonography and laser surgery should make collaboration obligatory and mandatory. Collaboration also occurs with orthopaedic, paediatric and plastic surgeons, proctologists and specialist nurses involved in urological treatments. Sometimes, there have been competition and conflicts with the above specialists, especially the gynaecologist in the treatment of urogenital fistulae. Close co-operation among healthcare practitioners will improve the standard of practice to the benefit of the patient as well as to promote healthier work atmosphere in health care delivery. Conflict and competition are diversionary, costly and unnecessary. The urologist appears best placed to lead the way in collaborative clinical practice in this millennium.
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Urology Unit, Department of Surgery, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
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D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D009549:Nigeria; D010348:Patient Care Team; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D014572:Urology