Referral pathways in colorectal cancer: An audit of surgeons' records

Allan D. Spigelman, Shane W. Pascoe, Mark F. Harris, Justin J. Beilby, Lisa J. Crossland, Rohan M. Gett, Michael B. Barton, Upali W. Jayasinghe

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the referral pathways of patients with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer to surgeons. 

Method: Australian surgeons from three states completed a questionnaire and their records were audited. 

Results: Thirty-three surgeons provided data on 530 patients seen in the preceding 12 months. The median time between colonoscopy and first surgical consult was 10 days, with 19% of patients waiting more than 28 days. After adjustment for clustering, no surgeon factors were associated with the number of days between colonoscopy and surgery. A report back to the general practitioner (GP) was found in 78% of patients' records. This feedback varied between surgeons but none of the specific surgeon characteristics examined could explain this. 

Conclusion: Surgeons usually communicated with GP regardless of whether they were the referral source. However, communication with GP varied considerably among surgeons, with no evidence of a report to the GP in one-fifth of cases. What is known about the topic? Referral from general practice is the main pathway to specialist services in Australia. There has been little research describing factors that affect referral patterns, particularly following diagnosis of cancer to investigation for surgery. What does this paper add? A significant minority of GP were not informed of the referral for colonoscopy and did not receive a copy of the report. No surgeon factors were associated with the number of days between colonoscopy and surgery. What are the implications for practitioners? Although the referral pathway for colorectal cancer often begins in general practice, GP are not always fully informed of the pathways used and other important treatment decisions. Improved use of audit, dissemination of results and improved information exchange generally may all make a significant impact.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)449-452
Number of pages4
JournalAustralian Health Review
Volume37
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 17 Sept 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Colorectal Neoplasms*/surgery
  • Referral and Consultation/organization & administration*

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Referral pathways in colorectal cancer: An audit of surgeons' records'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this