Problem: Effective communication between specialists and GPs is crucial for managing cognitively impaired patients. Variability in clinic letters can hinder care continuity. This audit focused on identifying inconsistencies in documentation and aimed to improve letter completeness and readability.
Design/Methods: A retrospective audit was conducted on 30 new patient memory clinic letters from a tertiary hospital, assessing adherence to key communication standards based on Australian Dementia Network Guidelines, local clinic proformas and validated audit tools. Letters were evaluated for key content including history, examination, cognitive assessment, social assessment, relevant imaging investigations and management plans. Following this, a standardised template and training intervention was introduced.
Practice Change/Results: Baseline findings showed strong documentation in medical history (83%) and of management plans (97%) but gaps in documentation of social history (63%) and of note advanced care planning (73%) were evident. The intervention including providing structured training for registrars conducted by specialists and allied health staff, as well as the implementation of a standardised letter template emphasising essential components.
Re-Audit: A re-audit is scheduled for early 2025 using the same methodology to assess the sustainability of improvements. Preliminary feedback suggests improved clarity, completeness, and usability of clinic letters. Findings will inform further refinements and broader implementation.
Conclusions: Standardizing letter templates and structured training improves communication, enhances GP decision-making, and supports better patient management. This initiative provides a scalable model for improving clinical documentation across specialties.