The single assessment process in primary care: what is the impact on other services?

Roberts, H.C., Hemsley, Z.M., Thomas, G., Aihie Sayer, A., Gove, I., Turner, G., Meakins, P., Morron-Ryan, M., Purcell, A. and Powell, J. (2005) The single assessment process in primary care: what is the impact on other services? British Geriatrics Society: Spring Meeting 2005, Birmingham, UK. 12 - 14 Apr 2005.

Abstract

Introduction: Within a study of the single assessment process, we evaluated its impact on primary care and other services.
Methods: 945 patients aged 70 years + were screened using the Sherbrooke case-finding questionnaire. Where indicated they underwent overview / comprehensive assessments using the Minimum Data Set for Home Care (MDS-HC). Unmet needs were discussed with the patient / carer, and appropriate referrals made.
Results: 307 patients were offered MDS-HC assessments, of whom 64 triggered 475 client assessment protocols (CAPS) in 27 domains. The most frequently triggered CAPS (>30) were immunisation and screening, medication management, communication disorders and pain. No-one triggered alcohol or elder abuse, or palliative care. The participants triggered a median of 8 CAPS each (range 2-18), generating 55 referrals as shown below.
Conclusions: Relatively few referrals were generated in this wellorganised practice with an established elderly care nurse practitioner, and her experience may explain the lack of referrals to geriatric medicine. The need for 4 case conferences suggests that the SAP highlighted complex issues. It is unclear whether those refusing further assessment would have had similar needs.

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Contributors

Author: H.C. Roberts

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