The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Observational Study
Brief interventions for obesity when patients are asked to pay for weight loss treatment: an observational study in primary care with an embedded randomised trial.
A brief intervention whereby GPs opportunistically facilitate an NHS-funded referral to a weight loss programme is clinically and cost-effective. ⋯ GP referral to a weight loss programme that requires patients to pay rather than offering an NHS-funded programme is acceptable; however, it results in almost no attendance.
-
In the context of a variable condition such as asthma, patient recognition of deteriorating control and knowing what prompt action to take is crucial. Yet, implementation of recommended self-management strategies remains poor. ⋯ Patients reported learning intuitively how to self-manage. Some regular actions became habitual; dealing with the unexpected required more reflective cognitive skills. In order to support implementation of optimal asthma self- management, clinicians should consider both these aspects of self-management and support, and educate patients proactively.
-
Awareness of the importance of shared decision making (SDM) is widespread; however, little research has focused on discussions surrounding investigations, despite increasing laboratory testing in primary care. ⋯ A lack of information dissemination and SDM exists around ordering tests and conveying results. Promoting SDM could reduce unnecessary testing and improve patient-centred care.
-
Autistic people are at increased risk of developing mental health problems. To reduce the negative impact of living with autism in a non-autistic world, efforts to improve take-up and access to care, and support in early years, which will typically start with a GP appointment, must be grounded in the accounts of autistic young adults. ⋯ Young autistic adults without learning disabilities, and their families, may hold erroneous beliefs about autism and mental health. This may affect help seeking and contribute to an exacerbation of symptoms. GPs need to be alert to the fact that autistic young adults in their care may be experiencing mental health difficulties but may not recognise them as such.