Abstract
Background and objective
The use of an 'eConsultant' to support the family physician is an established outpatient substitution model in North America. This pilot study investigates the feasibility of the eConsultant model for complex chronic disease management within the Australian setting.
Methods
This pilot study was implemented in one urban and four rural/remote general practices in one state. The general practitioner (GP) sent a request for advice (RFA), a clinical summary with a specific clinical question/s, via secure messaging to a physician working remotely. Responses were required for GP/patient follow-up within 72 hours.
Results
The mean (standard deviation [SD]) time for general physician reply was 2.1 (1.2) days, and mean (SD) time from initial to subsequent GP/patient review was 14.8 (16.7) days. Only 13.3% of eConsultations required a subsequent face-to-face outpatient department appointment.
Discussion
The eConsultant model is feasible in Australia, with potential for improving access and reducing time to non-GP specialist input.