The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
-
UK general practice has been described as being in crisis. A shortage and exodus of GPs is an urgent and challenging problem, attracting significant media attention, widespread public debate, and policy action. ⋯ Our research generates new knowledge about the interdependencies between contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes. The findings can inform strategies and interventions intended to support, facilitate, and assist the GP workforce in delivering equitable and effective patient care. We identify critical gaps in knowledge and prioritise the expectations for scope and nature of future GP work and retention strategies.
-
Enhancing the attractiveness of a career in general practice is a significant public health concern, given the current shortage in Belgium. ⋯ Perceptions of general practice are significantly shaped by interactions with role models from the medical sector who convey either a positive or negative image of general practice. To address the shortage issue, it is imperative to increase positive interactions with GPs within the curriculum and work towards changing the institutional culture at this level.
-
The underrepresentation of ethnic minorities and low-income groups in primary care (PC) research hinders the development of effective treatments for diverse populations. ⋯ This study provides insights into poor recruitment of specific ethnic minorities into primary care studies. The authors identified adaptations to research engagement activities, which are required to ensure that participation is improved.
-
Obesity is a driver of multimorbidity. Knowledge regarding individual and population based solutions is evolving in primary care. Stigma/self-stigma are important in developing clinical solutions. Inquiry based stress reduction (IBSR) is emerging as a solution for self-stigma in a range of conditions. This study explores IBSR (also known as The Work of Byron Katie) in obesity self-stigma in the GP setting, with severe obesity, utilising a multidisciplinary approach. ⋯ Results and experience in practice indicate this approach is feasible and acceptable. Results are valuable in planning a larger study in multiple practices.
-
Home blood pressure (BP) monitoring is an acceptable method with high accuracy and acceptability amongst patients. It has the potential to save many hours of clinical time and is less likely to suffer from white coat bias. However, it can raise anxiety in patients who may not interpret readings immediately. ⋯ This hypertension triage tool allows for interpretation by patients and non-clinicians with benefits of instantaneous reassurance, user and provider satisfaction all at reduced costs. Patients without MS Excel could not use this tool. The pilot study reinforced our hypothesis that such a modality has the potential to increase patient satisfaction and safety, and can be applied to a larger number of patients. Eventually an NHS app could be developed and rolled out for the large population.