The Impact on Emergency Department Utilization and Patient Flows after Integrating with a General Practitioner Cooperative: An Observational Study

Box 1

Features of an integrated GPC and ED (ECAP).

(i) One entrance with one desk for both GP and ED patients

(ii) Preferred access via a single regional telephone number

(iii) Access daily from 5 p.m. till 8 a.m. and on weekends and national holidays

(iv) Trained chauffeurs in recognizable fully equipped GP cars for home visits

(v) ICT support including electronic patient files and electronic feedback to the patient's own GP

(vi) Triage nurses (GP or ED nurses) in contact by telephone and on side

(vii) GP shifts of 6–8 hours

(ix) Ambulance patients are directly seen in the ED