Consensus Guidance on Primary and Secondary Care Interface

This document is a consensus guidance aimed at improving collaboration between primary and secondary care sectors within the Health and Social Care system. It outlines clinically led principles intended to enhance communication among healthcare professionals, optimize patient care pathways, and ensure timely actions are taken by the appropriate individuals or teams. The guidance emphasizes the importance of patient-centered decision-making and the need for clear communication regarding patient care and responsibilities. It addresses various aspects of clinical interactions, including prescribing practices, management of test results, and the responsibilities of clinicians in both primary and secondary care settings. The document also highlights the necessity for clinicians to treat colleagues with respect and maintain a focus on the patient throughout the care process. Furthermore, it encourages discussions among healthcare teams to further refine the implementation of these principles locally.