Zeitschrift für Allgemeinmedizin

Views from General Practitioners and Specialists in South Tyrol, Italy, Regarding the Function of Homogeneous Waiting Group Criteria in Patient Referrals

Abstract

Stephano Eric

Patient referral systems are crucial for ensuring that patients receive appropriate and timely care. In South Tyrol, Italy, the implementation of Homogeneous Waiting Group (HWG) criteria aims to streamline this process by categorizing patients based on the urgency and type of care required. This article examines the views of General Practitioners (GPs) and specialists in South Tyrol regarding the function and effectiveness of HWG criteria in patient referrals, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and potential improvements.