[Criteria of general practitioners on the high risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Information from health survey cards of 40-year old persons in Telemark 1992].

After a health survey of men and women aged 40-42 in Telemark county in 1992, a total of 539 persons were recommended to consult their general practitioner. The physicians returned survey cards for 322 persons, 60% of those recommended, to the National Health Screening Service. A total of 282 persons had consulted the doctor. Non-pharmacological treatment was offered to 93% of the men and 78% of the women. About 10% had either a new diagnosis, a new medication, or were referred to a hospital or an out-patient clinic. The lack of returned survey cards for 40% of the persons who were recommended a consultation is a challenge for the National Health Screening Service to improve communication with general practitioners.