Audit of surgical practice in a community hospital.

The results of a prospective analysis of one year's surgery on inpatients in a busy community hospital showed that a high quality of surgery may be achieved with safety and low rates of complications. The results of a retrospective analysis of certain aspects of surgery was just as encouraging. Surgery that is performed in a community hospital is convenient for the patient, provides continuity of care by the general practitioner, and waiting list times are short. Surgical facilities can form an integral part of the comprehensive service provided by a community hospital and can lighten the caseload for minor surgery at the district general hospital. Close liaison between the two hospitals is essential.