The development of clinical indicators for a consultation-liaison service

Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the development and implementation of clinical indicators in the consultation-liaison service at Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH). Method: A working party lead by the University of Melbourne was established in 1998 to develop clinical indicators and a database for the RMH consultation-liaison service. Core parameters for measuring service functioning and six clinical indicators were developed. The system was implemented using a data collection form and computerised database operating within a system of regular clinical reviews. Results: The clinical indicators, database and review system were found to be a feasible, useful and efficient addition to a consultation-liaison service at a major general hospital. Conclusions: Clinical indicators may be used within specialist psychiatry services to enhance clinical care and aid in service development and teaching.