In our experience, pathways provide patient-focused care, as they constantly monitor quality, and any deviation from the pathway identifies complications early. Pathways also facilitate discharge planning as the median length of stay is defined. In our clinical experience, pathways have been used successfully to coordinate care across the primary-secondary care interface. Chronic conditions such as asthma, obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes and palliative care have been managed in this way. Some hospitals and general practices coordinate care using pathways for investigating and managing patients who present with conditions such as a breast lump or acute rectal bleeding.
Pathways also have a part to play in clinical risk management.
When the pathway is developed, current practice is reviewed and the most recent evidence incorporated into the pathway. Potential risks can be identified and procedures established to minimise them. By including these in the pathway, changes in practice can rapidly be communicated to all members of the multidisciplinary team. Analysis of variation from the pathway can be used to monitor areas of potential risk. Poor documentation can fail to indicate whether a guideline has been followed, and this can readily be addressed by the introduction of the pathway.