title: Acute medicine--an alternative take.
abstract: This article explores the role of a GP with a special interest in acute medicine working with secondary care. The reasons why such a role may be helpful are outlined. Philosophies within primary and secondary care are explored and system changes explained. It is argued that while the primary/secondary care interface is widening, objectives on both sides are the same. It is suggested that future training programmes should allow enough flexibility for this role to evolve.
authors.affiliation: Department of Acute Medicine, University Hospital, Coventry. mike.houghton@nhs.net
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Houghton
mesh_terms: D058006:General Practice; D019538:Health Care Surveys / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008485:Medical Audit; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D006113:United Kingdom