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According to University of Exeter researchers, human aspect of medical practice was “potentially life-saving” but had been neglected. Continuity of care is beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, long-term mental health issues and complex needs.
The researchers said continuity of care was important and should be given a higher priority in healthcare planning. Continuity of care happens when a patient and a doctor see each other repeatedly and get to know each other, this leads to better communication, patient satisfaction, adherence to medical advice and lower use of hospital services.
People who meet the same doctor (relational and longitudinal continuity) have fewer and shorter hospitalisations, decreased use and utilisation of emergency departments, fewer operations, fewer duplicate diagnostic tests and decreased use of open access clinics.
haleplushearty.org