discharge(specialist) letter content

Last reviewed 01/2018

GP's need the following information in specialists discharge and follow-up letters:

  • diagnosis/summary of problem (header)
  • summary of symptoms
  • examination findings
  • results of investigations
  • management plan
  • nature and quantity of drugs issued, vaccines given
  • any drug reactions
  • information given to patient and/or relatives
  • follow-up arrangements
  • advice on future management

The type of information needed by GP's will vary greatly with the specialty.

ref: M Roland & A Coulter, Hospital Referrals, Oxford 1992