Five (5) general practices were recruited to use the pathology proforma with consenting patients during clinical consultations. Participating patients +/- carer were required to be over 18 years of age and have a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes with at least12 month’s duration.
An education session was conducted at each general practice by the QUPP Project Officers (Simone Patterson & Kylie Rhook) to outline the processes of the pre-test period.
Education sessions covered the following details:
- Supply and installation of colour laser printer by DCH Project Officer
- Use of manual pathology proforma
- Consent & consumer confidentiality
- Trialling of the template with 10-20 patients (@ $80 per patient) in clinical consultations
- Consumer and GP feedback surveys
Regular telephone contact and individual practice visits were conducted during the pre-test period by the DCH Project Officer, to support and ensure the smooth implementation of the draft proforma.
At the conclusion of the pre-test period, a total of 52 pathology reporting proformas were utilised with consumers in clinical consultations with their GP. (Table A)
| Participating Organisation | Completed GP & consumer surveys/proforma |
|---|---|
| Milleara Road Clinic | 20 |
| Hillcrest Health Centre | 10 |
| Somerton Road Medical Centre | 10 |
| Harding Street Medical Centre | 6 |
| Dianella General Practice | 6 |