Articles: ninos.
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A considerable proportion of GPs' workload is dermatological. It is important to investigate what common skin conditions encountered in primary care can be self-managed, in an effort to alleviate the burden on primary care. ⋯ Certain dermatological conditions have more potential for self-management than others. Research into teledermatology as a means of addressing patient concern and providing clinical information is important in order to reduce unnecessary consultations.
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It is estimated that 28.9% (17.8 million) of the UK population live with a musculoskeletal (MSK) condition. They are a major cause of morbidity, and a significant reason for presentation to primary care. ⋯ This study demonstrates that MSK presentations account for a large proportion of GP workload. There are no current mandatory training requirements in orthopaedics as part of the GP curriculum. Structured MSK education for GPs is important and would reduce the burden of re-presentations, particularly that of the lumbosacral spine and knee. Competency in joint injection is also a valuable skill for GPs.
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The research on the benefits, disadvantages and factors that affect appointment length in general practice is fragmented. There is a need to draw the evidence together and who better to assess this than those on the front line. ⋯ Most doctors would like longer appointments. In light of the concern about appointment availability, there needs to be research into whether this would substantiate.
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Empathy is a key health care concept and refers to care that incorporates understanding of patient perspective's, shared decision making, and consideration of the broader context in which illness is experience. Evidence suggests experiences of doctor empathy correlate with improved health outcomes and patient satisfaction. It has also been linked to job satisfaction, and mental wellbeing for doctors. To date, there is a paucity of evidence on empathy levels among medical students. This is critical to understand given that it is a key point at which perceptions and practices of empathy in the longer term might be formed. ⋯ These data will help to provide a better understanding of empathy levels to inform the provision of future empathy training and medical school curriculum design. Given previous evidence linking experiences of empathy to better health outcomes, the findings may also be significant to future patient care.
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Involving patients and carers in decisions that influence the delivery of health services is a statutory requirement across the NHS. However, current evidence suggests a gap exists between the theory, legislation and policy intentions and their practical implementation. ⋯ The literature suggests that no existing framework addresses all three key themes. Therefore, a revised framework for involvement was developed, informed by the three key themes, that can be tested across a larger sample and different healthcare settings.