AN ANALYSIS OF GENERAL-PRACTICE REFERRAL BEHAVIOR TO PSYCHIATRIC OUTPATIENT CLINICS

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyse general practice referrals to psychiatric out-patient clinics and their relation to pr actice and patient variables. Method: Retrospective analysis of new ep isode attendances at out-patient services over a three year period was undertaken. Referring practices were examined for referral rates, sin gle or group practice and the presence of Vocational/Psychiatric train ing within the practice. Results: Referral rates were similar to natio nal rates, but were lower than other jurisdictions. There was a tenden cy for group practices to have lower referral rates. Conclusions: Ther e was considerable difference between practices in referral rates. The se differences were significantly related to GP vocational/psychiatric training.