What evidence is there to support skill mix changes between GPs, pharmacists and practice nurses in the care of elderly people living in the community?

Table 1 Characteristics of the primary research papers included in the review

Study characteristics	Number (n = 46)	Percentage
Study design
Randomised controlled trial	30	65.2
Before and after (no control)	7	15.2
Controlled before & after	6	13.0
Controlled clinical trial	3	6.5
Year published
Pre-2000	7	15.2
2000 and later	39	84.8
Settings
Primary Care	35	76.1
Pharmacy	6	13.0
Community	1	2.2
Community based care	2	4.3
Managed Care Organisation	2	4.3
Intervention area
Urban	30	65.2
Urban and rural	8	17.4
Rural	5	10.9
Remote	1	2.2
Not clear	2	4.3
Country
USA	23	50.0
UK	12	26.1
Netherlands	4	8.7
Australia	2	4.3
Canada	2	4.3
Other	3	6.5
Chronic Disease
Cardiovascular conditions	12	26.1
Diabetes & related conditions	12	26.1
Not mentioned	10	21.7
2 or more chronic conditions	6	13.0
Musculo-skeletal conditions	2	4.3
Mental conditions	3	6.5
Respiratory conditions	1	2.2