Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the development and impleme
ntation of clinical indicators in the consultation-liaison service at Royal
Melbourne Hospital (RMH).
Method: A working party lead by the University of Melbourne was established
in 1998 to develop clinical indicators and a database for the RMH consulta
tion-liaison service. Core parameters for measuring service functioning and
six clinical indicators were developed. The system was implemented using a
data collection form and computerised database operating within a system o
f regular clinical reviews.
Results: The clinical indicators, database and review system were found to
be a feasible, useful and efficient addition to a consultation-liaison serv
ice at a major general hospital.
Conclusions: Clinical indicators may be used within specialist psychiatry s
ervices to enhance clinical care and aid in service development and teachin
g.