Shared care: a review of the literature

This review examines broad issues of concern regarding the primary/secondarycare interface. The main purpose was to identify areas of goodpractice which could be adapted for more general use. One ofthe most fundamental aspects identified was communication, whichis discussed in some detail. Also covered are shared prescribingand disease management. The data suggest that the most effectivesystem(s) of shared care has yet to be established. Furtherqualitative and economic evaluations are required, taking intoaccount patient preferences. Although the literature does describecertain practice exemplars, it is clear that inter- and intra-professionalcommunication continues to be a problem. Whilst informationtechnology may provide some of the solutions, it is concludedthat a culture change, which compels health professionals tomake sharing of patient information a much higher priority,is reauired. Keywords. Shared care, seamless care, hospital, general practice, family practice.     

When nurses and teachers strike: public perceptions of 'the betrayal'

This article examines how the public perceived both teachers and nurses during their first strikes in Victoria. How did the community react when two previously trusted groups of essential service workers "closed shop" and walked out. Reactions towards the teachers' and nurses' actions by the press, politicians and those members of the public who expressed themselves via the media are examined. While many of the arguments used in the public debate were similar, the most significant difference in the public's reaction was related to the gender of the leaders of the respective industrial organizations.