Risk stratification in the management of atrial fibrillation in the community.

This study assessed whether risk stratification in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in the community had a bearing on the likelihood of receiving aspirin or warfarin therapy. Seven hundred and fifty patients were identified from 14 practices by means of diagnostic READ codes or repeat prescriptions for digoxin from practice computers. The study demonstrates that general practitioners appreciate the importance of antithrombotic therapy in patients who have suffered stroke, but take poor account of increasing age and other independent risk factors. A more proactive approach to risk identification and treatment seems justified.