Transitions to Primary Care

Abstract

After intensive care and hospital-based rehabilitation, most ICU (Intensive Care Unit) survivors receive aftercare from their Primary Care Physician (PCP). This setting is characterized in many countries by a long-term doctor-patient relationship, with all health services being coordinated by a central clinician. Due to fragmentation in the care process, information on the ICU stay and knowledge about ICU sequelae are often missing in primary care. Structured discharge notes, the inclusion of PCPs in ICU follow-up programs, and the application of standardized scales and guidelines, as well as the establishment of training modules, should be implemented.