RCGP statement in response to NICE guidelines on
feverish illness in children
Professor Mayur Lakhani, Chair of the Royal College of General
Practitioners (RCGP), says:
“This guidance heralds a major change in
clinical practice and parents will need to be fully engaged in the
process as more children may require invasive tests such as lumbar
puncture.
“The care of children and families is a very
important part of general practice. We are concerned that this
guidance underplays the important role of GPs, who are experts in
managing uncertainty and undifferentiated presentations in primary
care.
“The overriding issue must be to achieve the
best possible outcome for the child and this represents a
considerable challenge for the NHS. We will be pleased to work with
our specialist colleagues to drive up standards for children.
“It is essential that doctors are supported in
implementing the guidance and that there is a step change in
services such as the availability of investigations.”
Ends
The guidelines can be viewed on the
NICE website
For more information please contact Lorna
Fletcher in the RCGP Press Office 020 7344 3136 / press@rcgp.org.uk