A recent study funded by the School for Primary Care Research (SPCR) and led by the University of Bristol explores how blood test results are communicated between clinicians and patients in primary care. The research, published in the British Journal of General Practice, reveals that while digital communication methods like online access are valued by many patients, a "one-size-fits-all" approach is not sufficient.
The study emphasises the need for a variety of communication methods, including face-to-face consultations and phone calls, to cater to patients' diverse needs. The findings stress the importance of clarity, patient-friendly language, and timely communication of urgent results to enhance patient care.
For more details, visit the full article here.
Resources:
- Paper: Communicating blood test results in primary care: a mixed methods systematic review. Helen Nankervis et al. Published in British Journal of General Practice. 25 February 2025.
- SPCR Project details: Test Talk Tools: A mixed-methods systematic review to identify interventions to improve blood test communication in primary care
- See also: Found poem gives voice to patients’ experiences of blood tests.
- SPCR Bitesized Showcase Webinar recording 1:15:02 - 1:33:26