title: General practitioner and physiotherapist communication: how to improve this vital interaction.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Appropriate communication between general practitioners (GPs) and physiotherapists is vital for providing optimal care. Differing opinions exist as to key inclusion in this communication. This study aims to identify the key components that both GPs and physiotherapists would include in inter-professional communication.
  
  
  METHODS
  Qualitative study design, using 14 in-depth, semi-structured telephone interviews.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Physiotherapists identified relevant past medical history, psycho-social history, yellow flags, anticipated time frame for follow-up and objective measures of current function as the more useful inclusions in written communication. GPs identified the inclusion of a working diagnosis, treatment summary and likely long-term outcomes as the key components to effective communication.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Effective interprofessional communication requires the provision of information that is both succinct and relevant. While there are individual preferences, this study suggests that certain key characteristics exist, and the inclusion of these in interprofessional communication may lead to improved communication and patient outcomes.
authors.affiliation: 1Stage 2 Medical Student,University of Sydney,Australia BAppSci (Physiotherapy),New South Wales,Australia.
authors.forename: Christopher
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Hayward
authors.affiliation: 2Head of Discipline of General Practice,Sydney Medical Program,University of Sydney,Australia.
authors.forename: Simon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Willcock
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001315:Australia; D005260:Female; D058005:General Practitioners / Q000523:psychology / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D059825:Physical Therapists / Q000523:psychology / Q000592:standards*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D036301:Qualitative Research
keywords: communication; general practice; physiotherapy