An audit of patients attending a general medical follow-up clinic.

Of the 418 consecutive patients attending a general medical clinic for follow-up, 113 (27%) had appointments in another medical clinic for the same or a related problem; 98 of them (87%) were attending a clinic in a different hospital. The reasons for multiple clinic attendance were routine follow-up after hospital admission in 55 (49%), referrals from general practitioners to more than one clinic in 33 (30%), and cross-referrals from the 'parent' medical firm in 19 (17%). In six patients no clear reason for multiple attendances could be identified. More than half (55%) were over 65 years old, 45% lived more than five miles from the hospital, and 78% depended on ambulance, friends, or relatives for transport. We suggest that follow-up attendances at outpatient clinics should be stringently reviewed and should only be maintained if a clear reason can be identified. This would not only ensure a more effective service overall but would also save patients and relatives from inconvenience.