Implementing direct access to low-dose computed tomography in general practice--method, adaption and outcome.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Early detection of lung cancer is crucial as the prognosis depends on the disease stage. Chest radiographs has been the principal diagnostic tool for general practitioners (GPs), but implies a potential risk of false negative results, while computed tomography (CT) has a higher sensitivity. The aim of this study was to describe the implementation of direct access to low-dose CT (LDCT) from general practice.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study nested in a randomised study. A total of 119 general practices with 266 GPs were randomised into two groups. Intervention GPs were offered direct access to chest LDCT combined with a Continuing Medical Education (CME) meeting on lung cancer diagnosis.

Results

During a 19-month period, 648 patients were referred to LDCT

SUBMITTER: Guldbrandt LM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4226510 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature