The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
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GP confidence and competence in relation to gender diversity and the discussion of related matters remains relatively unknown. Despite increasing demand on primary care in dealing with matters of gender identity; contention and confusion are unfortunately widely reported amongst doctors. ⋯ Our findings highlight that a significant proportion of GPs have no formal training in relation to discussing pronouns and gender incongruence. We believe GPs should have the skills necessary to appreciate, understand and provide structured support to those with concerns in relation to their gender identity. With waiting times for gender clinics frequently exceeding 2 years, our findings emphasise the increasing importance of GP specific training in the field of gender identity.
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Liver disease is common, but not part of routine chronic disease management in primary care. ⋯ The inability to influence care decisions blurs occupational boundaries and goes to the core of what it means to be a professional. Unless liver disease sits within this target-based system, it is unlikely to become part of routine work in primary care.
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Homelessness is a significant social issue in the UK. A GP practice (name redacted) based in Manchester has provided a primary Homeless Healthcare Service (HHS) to people experiencing homelessness (PEH) for 21 years. ⋯ Recommendations for future improvements were categorised as administrative, physical, service provision, and communication. The practice can further develop communication and advertising through Manchester, clarify pathways to care for PEH, and increase outreach services to ensure improved access to services.
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Established by Crisis Rescue Foundation in 2021 to support the missing and vulnerable to access health and wellbeing help. ⋯ Effective, bespoke and personalised information, and signposting to support were well-received at the pop-ups. Professionals working with service users experiencing inequalities of allied and local voluntary organisations to enhance equity by addressing the unmet health and wellbeing needs of the missing and the vulnerable.
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Physical inactivity is estimated to cost the UK NHS over £1 billion per year. Healthcare practitioners have a key role in supporting increases in physical activity (PA) levels, including referring to exercise referral schemes (ERS). To date, there has been little research into practitioner perspectives on referrals to ERS. ⋯ Practitioners believed ERS referrals could be improved with more targeted training, support for multidisciplinary working, and enhanced communication between the programmes and referrers. Additionally, supporting behaviour change requires time to develop rapport and understand patients' motivations and beliefs. Lack of time is the greatest current barrier to effective PA promotion.