‘Improvements’ to ensure ‘appropriate’ GP referrals to diagnostic services

Further work is taking place to ensure “appropriate” GP referrals to diagnostic services, heard a joint HSE and Department of Health taskforce earlier this year.

The issue was discussed during a meeting of the productivity and savings taskforce in February. The group is co-chaired by the HSE CEO and the Secretary General of the Department.

During the meeting, a discussion took place on GP guidelines for diagnostics. The minutes noted that further work – including clinical input – would be undertaken to ensure appropriate referrals from GPs to diagnostic services.

A HSE spokesperson told the Medical Independent the enhanced community care programme continues to work on improving the diagnostics services scheme.

This includes collaboration with the Irish College of GPs to support educational initiatives, such as the development of a quick reference guide providing a concise version of iRefer.

“All of this improvement work is brought to the attention of the productivity taskforce in the context of improved value and effectiveness of this service,” they added.

As demand for diagnostic services continues to increase, the HSE said it remains committed to optimising the use of radiology capacity and ensuring equitable access across the system.

“In that context, we are actively progressing the implementation of clinical decision support tools to assist referring clinicians in making evidence-informed decisions.”

This tool is part of the range of initiatives underway “to improve productivity and effectiveness” of the health service.

“This work forms part of a broader strategy to enhance the quality and sustainability of diagnostic services through targeted education for referrers and strengthened clinical governance,” added the spokesperson. “These efforts aim to ensure that radiology capacity is utilised efficiently, equitably, and per best practices.”

Separately, HSE National Doctors Training and Planning (NDTP) confirmed it is not currently developing a new report on general practice in Ireland. This year marks a decade since the NDTP published Medical Workforce Planning Future Demand for General Practitioners 2015-2025.