Beschreibung:
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title>
<jats:sec>
<jats:title>Background</jats:title>
<jats:p>In the Leeds catchment, pancreatitis referrals were made ad hoc via telephone or email. This was frequently by a junior team member and essential information was frequently absent. Frustratingly the referring teams did not know who to contact and often had to make multiple calls. There was no record of these referrals and the advice provided. As a Quality Improvement we instituted an electronic referral system.</jats:p>
</jats:sec>
<jats:sec>
<jats:title>Methods</jats:title>
<jats:p>An Electronic referral system (Patient Pass, already within the Trust) was utilised. We developed a simple questionnaire for the referrer to complete. This was accessed via a hyperlink on the Leeds Pancreas Unit website. Images could be reviewed using a regional El Xero server without the need for image transfer This was implemented in September 2021.</jats:p>
<jats:p>The system is monitored Monday to Friday by either an Advanced Clinical Practitioner or by the senior registrar/fellow. Information and scans are reviewed, and all cases discussed with the on call pancreas consultant. A survey was sent to all users in secondary care.</jats:p>
</jats:sec>
<jats:sec>
<jats:title>Results</jats:title>
<jats:p>166 referrals in 21 months , Average response time from initial referral was under 3 hours. 46/166 transferred to LTHT. Average number of responses per individual referral. Overall satisfaction was over 80% from secondary care. The Pancreas team has found it easier to provide timely accurate advice on a complete set of data, especially the immediate access to images.</jats:p>
</jats:sec>
<jats:sec>
<jats:title>Conclusions</jats:title>
<jats:p>An electronic referral system has led to increased satisfaction for referrers. The system has led to an open, auditable, visible, referral and advice process. This has allowed patients to remain in the local hospital closer to home and visitors until the time intervention is needed or appropriate.</jats:p>
</jats:sec>