Analysis of an open electrocardiograph referral service for family doctors.

The results of a questionary to investigate an open electrocardiograph (E.C.G.) service for family doctors suggest that the service is useful in diagnosis (26% of the E.C.G. reports were unexpected) and in management (the result of the E.C.G. led to specific treatment or alteration to regimen in 22% of cases and in a further 46% to reassurance). The results suggest that during the 45 weeks of the study many outpatient appointments were avoided.Undoubtedly an open E.C.G. service allows the family doctor to give a quicker and better service to his patients. For this reason and because of operational benefits to the hospital the service must be recommended.