The Psychiatrist (2004) 28: 8-11. doi: 10.1192/pb.28.1.8
© 2004 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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Psychiatric Bulletin (2004) 28: 8-11
© 2004 The Royal College of Psychiatrists

Using evidence-based dissemination and implementation strategies to improve routine communication between general practitioners and community mental health teams

Tracy White, previously Senior Project Worker

LInC (Liaison at the Interface of Care Project

Sarah Marriott, Consultant Psychiatrist

Paterson Centre for Mental Health, Central and North West London Mental Health Trust, 20 South Wharf Road, London W2 1EE

Declaration of interest

None.

AIMS AND METHOD

To improve the quality of written communication between general practitioners (GPs) and community mental health team (CMHT) members concerning patients newly referred to two inner-city CMHTs. Following a benchmark audit of a random sample of referral and assessment letters, locally agreed good practice protocols were shared widely, accompanied by a dissemination and implementation strategy.

RESULTS

Significant improvements occurred in both GP and CMHT letters; these were most dramatic after 1 year, but tailed off considerably in the second year despite continued efforts to implement the protocols’ standards.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Planned dissemination and implementation strategies can help to improve routine clinical communication between CMHTs and GPs through the use of good practice protocols, thus improving shared working between primary and secondary care providers.




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