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Out of hours medical cover in community hospitals : implications for palliative care.

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<mark>Journal publication date</mark>2006
<mark>Journal</mark>International Journal of Palliative Nursing
Issue number2
Volume12
Number of pages6
Pages (from-to)75-80
Publication StatusPublished
<mark>Original language</mark>English

Abstract

Background The new General Medical Services contract in England means many GPs have transferred out-of hours work to their primary care organization, with implications for continuity of palliative care in community hospitals. Aim To examine existing arrangements for out-of-hours medical cover in community hospitals, focusing on palliative care. Methods Telephone survey of community hospital managers/ senior nurses across England and Wales. Results Interviews (n = 62) revealed nursing staff were satisfied with existing out-of-hours care. Concern was expressed about the future of out-of-hours medical care from GPs as new services will cover larger areas, meaning unknown doctors may attend, taking longer to arrive. Conclusion Arrangements for out-of-hours medical cover in community hospitals are in transition, threatening the continuity of care for dying patients.