What difference does a neurologist make in a general hospital? Estimating the impact of neurology consultations on in-patient care.
BACKGROUND
To determine the impact of neurological consultations on the care of hospital in-patients and to ascertain patients' perceptions, referrals were prospectively recorded over a 6-month period. The neurology team's view and changes suggested to management were documented. All referred patients' notes were reviewed at 6 months and the impact of a neurology referral was determined.


RESULTS
Two hundred and fifty-four (254) referrals were seen. There was a significant change in diagnosis in 55%, and in management in nearly 70%. Neurological referral facilitated earlier discharge for 65% patients. Thirty-seven of 163 patients contacted at 6 months did not know they were seen by a neurologist. Of those who knew, 57% felt referral had aided in their diagnosis and 86% felt it had aided treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Neurological consultations can make a significant difference to in-patient management. Early referral may lead to early discharge. Patient satisfaction was high but not without criticism.
Roberts
K
K
Department of Neurology, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4, Ireland.
Costelloe
D
D
Hutchinson
M
M
Tubridy
N
N
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006760:Hospitalization; D006769:Hospitals, General; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D009462:Neurology; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010819:Physician's Role; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data