The document summarizes the experience of transitioning from paper to electronic referrals in a district health board region in New Zealand. It found that while a generic electronic referral form provided benefits like speed and security, customizing forms for specific specialties could further improve the referral process. The colorectal referral form was most successful due to collaborative design and GP engagement. However, customizing the breast form was less successful due to inadequate problem definition and design process. The document recommends continuing to address referral quality and security using the generic form, while only customizing forms as part of broader service reviews that fully involve clinicians.

1. E-referrals.. Just do it!

13. Outcomes of our customisation…

14. The Colorectal form

20. The breast form

27. Overall uptake – 92% (Oct 2010) of all OPC referrals electronic 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 March April May June July August September October November December January February March April May June July August September 2009 2010 e-referrals total referrals

33. Summary

35. Asking GPs to make yet more change……

39. Our future priorities