AIMS: The aim of this study was to describe the use of an online user group to enhance communication and productivity by critical care specialists. METHODS: In this article, we provide a description of the first 6 months of use of an online user group by senior retrieval physicians. RESULTS: Initially developed as a communication and online discussion tool, our online user group evolved to include a number of other utilities that support clinical governance. These included a repository for useful files, educational presentations, online rostering and "portfolio pages", updating aspects of an individual specialist's non-clinical activity. Its applications continue to evolve in number and utility. Participating physicians perceive an increase in organisational efficiency. CONCLUSIONS: An online user group such as Google Groups may provide powerful support to an organisation's clinical governance. We recommend this tool to other services with limited administrative personnel.
AIMS: The aim of this study was to describe the use of an online user group to enhance communication and productivity by critical care specialists. METHODS: In this article, we provide a description of the first 6 months of use of an online user group by senior retrieval physicians. RESULTS: Initially developed as a communication and online discussion tool, our online user group evolved to include a number of other utilities that support clinical governance. These included a repository for useful files, educational presentations, online rostering and "portfolio pages", updating aspects of an individual specialist's non-clinical activity. Its applications continue to evolve in number and utility. Participating physicians perceive an increase in organisational efficiency. CONCLUSIONS: An online user group such as Google Groups may provide powerful support to an organisation's clinical governance. We recommend this tool to other services with limited administrative personnel.