All-Island Congenital Heart Disease Network referrals to tertiary centres

Abstract

Aim
To understand the impact on referral rates to tertiary centres following the establishment of five Paediatrician with expertise in cardiology (PEC) services on the Island of Ireland.

Methods
A retrospective data analysis of referral numbers to the cardiology departments in both tertiary centres were completed between January 2017 to December 2024.

Results
Cumulative data displayed how regional centre referral numbers reduced from 1,348 to 466 (65%) by 2024. Statistical testing (Anova test) found p<0.05 significant difference in mean referral rates across all locations.

Discussion
Referral numbers to paediatric cardiology services have increased exponentially. Once a PEC service is established, there is a dramatic decrease in the number of referrals to the affiliated tertiary centre. The PEC model has demonstrated the benefits of providing expert clinical assessment and non-invasive cardiac diagnostics as close to home as possible for patients.