internkonsultation

Internkonsultation is a medical consultation carried out by an internist in response to a request from another clinician to assess and manage a patient with complex or unclear medical problems. It is commonly used in hospital settings—ward rounds, emergency departments, and, less frequently, outpatient clinics—where adults with multimorbidity, atypical presentations, or polypharmacy require expert medical review. The goal is to refine diagnosis, optimize treatment, and coordinate care across disciplines.

Typically, the process begins with the requesting clinician providing a concise history, current medications, recent investigations, and the clinical question. The internist conducts a focused examination, reviews available records, and may order targeted tests or imaging. The consultant may consult subspecialists, adjust medications, propose a diagnostic or therapeutic plan, and outline monitoring and discharge recommendations. Communication with the patient and with the care team is essential.

Outcomes of internkonsultation include improved diagnostic accuracy, more appropriate use of investigations and therapies, and enhanced discharge planning and care continuity. It can reduce delays in complex decision-making and help ensure that medical problems are addressed before surgical or procedural interventions. Limitations may include variability in availability and responsiveness of consultants, as well as the potential for fragmented information if handoffs are not well managed.

In many health systems, internkonsultation is a core component of internal medicine and of multidisciplinary patient care, bridging primary assessment and specialized treatment.