Surgical referrals in Northern Tanzania: a prospective assessment of rates, preventability, reasons and patterns.

ABSTRACT:

Background

An effective referral system is essential for a high-quality health system that provides safe surgical care while optimizing patient outcomes and ensuring efficiency. The role of referral systems in countries with under-resourced health systems is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to examine the rates, preventability, reasons and patterns of outward referrals of surgical patients across three levels of the healthcare system in Northern Tanzania.

Methods

Referrals from surgical and obstetric wards were assessed at 20 health facilities in five rural regions prospectively over 3 months. Trained physician data collectors used data collection forms to capture referral details daily from hospital referral letters and through discussions with clinicians and nu

SUBMITTER: Jumbam DT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7414731 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature