The European journal of general practice
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Social prescribing (SP) is a patient pathway by which healthcare professionals connect patients with other sources of support, groups, or activities within their community. The awareness, practice, and perception of SP among GPs across Europe remains unclear. ⋯ Despite disparities in awareness and referral practice as well as a diversity of activities and funding sources, most GPs who actively referred patients and were informed about SP campaigns agreed that SP positively impacts them and their patients.
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5.4 million people in the UK have asthma, with one third experiencing suboptimal control, leading to co-morbidities and increased healthcare use. A quarter of people with long-term conditions informally access peer support through online health communities (OHCs). However, integrating online peer support into primary care services to facilitate self-management is a new concept. ⋯ Findings will assist clinicians in consultations about supporting self-management of patients through OHCs. Future research should evaluate feasibility, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of such support.
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In manufacturers' trials, vaccination against COVID-19 proved to be safe and effective. The officially reported frequency of vaccine adverse events (VAEs) in Poland is lower than that declared by the manufacturers. The anti-vaccination activists questioned the trustworthiness of official data. ⋯ Although more than 90% of patients vaccinated against COVID-19 in general practice settings may experience VAEs, in short-term observation, the vast majority are localised and mild.
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In Slovenia, primary care is the backbone and gatekeeper to the health care system. During the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care had to be reorganised to manage suspected COVID-19 patients, safely care for other patients, and manage the consequences of the pandemic. ⋯ Based on participants' experiences and suggestions, the most important areas to address in similar pandemic situations are clear organisation of work in primary care (adequate funding, staff allocation, distribution of personal protective equipment), psychological solid support for health workers, and effective and timely support from health authorities.