Title : Compliancy rate of GP referral’s to the WPH trauma & orthopaedic service
Abstract:
Introduction: The interface between primary and secondary care is a core feature of the NHS. GPs act as gatekeepers, managing referrals to secondary care. According to The King’s Fund, high-quality referrals rely on three principles:
•Necessity – timely and appropriate referrals
•Destination – directing patients to the right service the first time
•Process – ensuring referrals are well executed
The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) has issued a Quality Patient Referrals booklet to support best practices in GP referral management. This audit evaluates local GP referrals to the WPH Trauma & Orthopaedic (T&O) Foot & Ankle Service in line with RCGP guidance.
Aim: To optimise GP referrals to the WPH T&O Service by ensuring patients are seen by the right clinician, at the right time, in the right place—thereby supporting high-quality care and efficient use of MSK service capacity across primary and secondary care.
Methods: Retrospective review of the 30 most recent GP referrals to the Foot & Ankle (F&A) Service as of 11/04/2025.
•Data sourced from outpatient clinic lists on EPIC and corresponding e-RS referral letters.
Results: Fully compliant referrals: 3/30 (10%)
•Acceptable but non-compliant: 21/30 (70%)
•Non-acceptable referrals: 6/30 (20%)
•Most acceptable referrals were for Hallux Valgus (Arthritis)
