Improving the interface between primary and secondary care

The interface between primary and secondary care is the space of a growing volume and variety of activities for the NHS, ranging from referrals to specialist care, diagnostic testing and medicines management. An effective and efficient interface has never been more important, but this analysis finds the equivalent of 15 million GP appointments per year are spent dealing with issues in care management between GP practices and hospitals, creating frustration and patient safety issues.  The report sets out 20 recommendations.