This morning, we reported on a piece of research that showed that GPs’ clinical judgement led to 20% fewer referrals than implementing the ‘NEWS’ score, which is being implemented for GPs calling 999.
It’s true that there wasn’t an analysis of the clinical outcomes. But this is in line with everything we understand about GPs and algorithms stoking clinical demand. As one commenter put it: ‘I don’t know what a GP is if it isn’t a subtle nuanced human diagnosis and assessment machine.’
If a GP thinks an ambulance is needed, then an ambulance is needed
But also, it makes it even more scandalous that GPs report ambulances delaying callouts to practices because of the presence of a medical professional. What this implies is that if a GP thinks an ambulance is needed, then an ambulance is needed.
Maybe it is time that the NHS appreciates these subtle nuanced human diagnosis and assessment machines.
Jaimie Kaffash is editor of Pulse. Follow him on Twitter @jkaffash or email him at editor@pulsetoday.co.uk
