Family practice
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Headache disorders are globally prevalent and insufficient treatment contribute to low quality of life, increased disability, and socioeconomic costs. However, headache can to a large extent be treated appropriately by general practitioners. ⋯ This study provides insights to how GPs manage patients with long-lasting headache. Focus should be on reducing opioids, increasing preventive treatment, and keeping more patients in primary care.
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To examine changes in life satisfaction and physical and mental health associated with opioid and potentially inappropriate opioid prescribing (PIOP) among older adults. ⋯ PIOP was associated with a deterioration in physical health. Patient-centred chronic pain management and the effect on health and well-being require further study in older adults.
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Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has significant morbidity and economic costs. This study describes the prevalence and characteristics of patients with PTSD using primary care electronic medical record (EMR) data. ⋯ The prevalence of PTSD in Canadian primary care is 1.3% (95% CI 1.25-1.31). Using EMR records we confirmed the co-occurrence of PTSD with other mental health conditions within primary care settings suggesting benefit for improved screening and evidence-based resources to manage PTSD.
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The clinical general practitioner (GP) workforce is decreasing. Many studies have analysed the negative aspects of the profession but, few examine the positive aspects and job satisfaction. A European collaborative group including 8 participating countries recently conducted a qualitative study to analyse the positive factors and found 31 job satisfaction factors. ⋯ These 8 job satisfaction factors are important to consider and apply to future policy development.
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To explore consultation patterns, management practices, and costs of foot, ankle, and leg problems in Australian primary care. ⋯ Foot, ankle, and leg problems are frequently managed by GPs, and the costs associated with their management represent a substantial economic impact in Australian primary care.