Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Thyroid quality indicators were removed from the Quality Outcome Framework (QOF) targets in 2014, resulting in discontinuation of statutory system alerts to remind GPs to check annual thyroid function in patients with primary hypothyroidism treated with levothyroxine.Aim: To investigate the impact of the discontinuation and reinstitution of the QOF thyroid e-alerts on the management of hypothyroidism in primary care.<p cla...

Introduction: Thyroid quality indicators were removed from the Quality Outcome Framework (QOF) targets in 2014, resulting in discontinuation of statutory system alerts to remind GPs to check annual thyroid function in patients with primary hypothyroidism treated with levothyroxine.Aim: To investigate the impact of the discontinuation and reinstitution of the QOF thyroid e-alerts on the management of hypothyroidism in primary care.<p cla...

Introduction: Thyroid hormone replacement is frequently suboptimal but interventions that are proven to optimise therapy are lacking. In 2017, we developed in EMIS an electronic Protocol for Monitoring Patients on Thyroxine in General Practice (‘e-Prompt GP’), to offer automated alerts to prompt GP's to test and address out of range thyroid function tests in patients with hypothyroidism.Aim: To investigate the long-term impact of an electronic ...

Background: Clinically significant Graves’ orbitopathy (GO) develops in 20% of those with Graves’ Disease (GD). Up to 90% of cases present at the same time as, or after, hyperthyroidism develops. Most cases of GD in the UK are managed in endocrinology clinics. Despite this, patients report significant delays before a correct diagnosis of GO is made. We argued that measures to increase awareness of the early signs of GO in those with GD and establishing a fast-track r...

Introduction: Following the introduction of the Quality Outcome Framework (QOF), 98–100% patients with hypothyroidism received annual TSH checks during the period 2009–2014. However, there was no evidence this resulted in improved care. We have developed an electronic protocol in EMIS web to both emulate the former QOF thyroid e-alerts in prompting GP’s to check annual thyroid function in patients with treated primary hypothyroidism, and also to alert if TSH is ...

Introduction: Radioiodine (RI) is a safe and effective treatment for Graves’ disease. In the months following RI different strategies are used to gain control of thyroid status, although there is no evidence base as to the optimal approach.Objectives: To compare the incidence of dysthyroidism post-RI between three principal management strategies employed by clinicians.Study design and methods: Retrospective, observational, mul...

Graves’ orbitopathy affects approximately 0.25 million people in the UK and is associated with a significant psychological and socioeconomic burden. Surveys have illustrated that Graves’ orbitopathy is often treated inadequately. The Amsterdam Declaration is a recent incentive supported by many national and international professional and patient-led organizations including the SfE, aiming to improve the outcomes of patients with Graves’ orbitopathy. This report ...