scholarly journals Utilising interactive focus groups to improve diabetic management within primary care

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-3
Author(s):  
Sharan Syam ◽  
Mubarak Osman
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Focus Groups

Perceived Facilitators and Barriers to Implementation of a Decision Support Tool for Adolescent Depression and Suicidality Screening: A Qualitative Study (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ana Radovic ◽  
Nathan Anderson ◽  
Megan Hamm ◽  
Brandie George-Milford ◽  
Carrie Fascetti ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Primary Care ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Decision Support Tool ◽  
Depression Screening ◽  
Self Disclosure ◽  
Support Tool ◽  
Adolescent Parent ◽  
Barriers To Implementation

BACKGROUND Screening Wizard (SW) is a technology-based decision support tool aimed at guiding primary care providers (PCPs) to respond to depression and suicidality screens in adolescents. Separate screens assess adolescents’ and parents’ reports on mental health symptoms, treatment preferences, and potential treatment barriers. A detailed summary is provided to PCPs, also identifying adolescent-parent discrepancies. The goal of SW is to enhance decision making to increase utilization of evidence-based treatments. OBJECTIVE We describe a multi-stakeholder qualitative study with adolescents, parents, and providers to understand potential barriers to implementation of SW. METHODS We interviewed 11 parents and 11 adolescents, and conducted 2 focus groups with 17 healthcare providers (PCPs, nurses, therapists, staff) across 2 pediatric practices. Participants described previous experiences with screening for depression and were shown a mock-up of SW and asked for feedback. Interviews and focus groups were transcribed verbatim, and codebooks inductively developed based on content. Transcripts were double-coded, and disagreements adjudicated to full agreement. Completed coding was used to produce thematic analyses of interviews and focus groups. RESULTS We identified five main themes across the interviews and focus groups: (1) parents, adolescents, and pediatric PCPs agree that depression screening should occur in pediatric primary care; (2) there is concern that accurate self-disclosure does not always occur during depression screening; (3) Screening Wizard is viewed as a tool that could facilitate depression screening, and which might encourage more honesty in screening responses; (4) parents, adolescents and providers do not want Screening Wizard to replace mental health discussions with providers; and (5) providers want to maintain autonomy in treatment decisions. CONCLUSIONS We identified that providers, parents, and adolescents all have concerns with current screening practices, mainly regarding inaccurate self-disclosure. They recognized value in SW as a computerized tool that may elicit more honest responses and identify adolescent-parent discrepancies. Surprisingly, providers did not want the SW report to include treatment recommendations, and all groups did not want the SW report to replace conversations with the PCP about depression. While SW was originally developed as a treatment decision algorithm, this qualitative study has led us to remove this component, and instead focus on aspects identified as most useful by all groups. We hope that this initial qualitative work will improve future implementation of SW.

scholarly journals A qualitative exploration of patients’ experiences, needs and expectations regarding online access to their primary care record

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. e044221
Author(s):  
Brian McMillan ◽  
Gail Davidge ◽  
Lindsey Brown ◽  
Moira Lyons ◽  
Helen Atherton ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Primary Care Record ◽  
Online Access ◽  
Additional Support ◽  
The Uk ◽  
Records Access ◽  
Qualitative Exploration

ObjectivesPrimary care records have traditionally served the needs and demands of clinicians rather than those of the patient. In England, general practices must promote and offer registered patients online access to their primary care record, and research has shown benefits to both patients and clinicians of doing so. Despite this, we know little about patients’ needs and expectations regarding online access to their record. This study explored what patients and carers want from online access to their electronic primary care health record, their experiences of using it, how they would like to interact with their record and what support they may need.DesignFocus groups and semistructured interviews using purposive sampling to achieve a good sociodemographic spread. Interviews were digitally audiorecorded, transcribed and coded using an established thematic approach.SettingFocus groups and interviews were conducted in community settings in the UK.ParticipantsFifty-four individuals who were either eligible for the National Health Service Health Check, living with more than one long-term condition or caring for someone else.ResultsParticipants views regarding online access were categorised into four main themes: awareness, capabilities, consequences and inevitability. Participants felt online access should be better promoted, and suggested a number of additional functions, such as better integration with other parts of the healthcare system. It was felt that online access could improve quality of care (eg, through increased transparency) but also have potential negative consequences (eg, by replacing face to face contact). A move towards more online records access was considered inevitable, but participants noted a need for additional support and training in using the online record, especially to ensure that health inequalities are not exacerbated.ConclusionsDiscussions with patients and carers about their views of accessing online records have provided useful insights into future directions and potential improvements for this service.

scholarly journals Primary care teams’ experiences of delivering mental health care during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rachelle Ashcroft ◽  
Catherine Donnelly ◽  
Maya Dancey ◽  
Sandeep Gill ◽  
Simon Lam ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Primary Care ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Mental Health Care ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Care Delivery ◽  
Virtual Care ◽  
Primary Care Teams ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Background Integrated primary care teams are ideally positioned to support the mental health care needs arising during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding how COVID-19 has affected mental health care delivery within primary care settings will be critical to inform future policy and practice decisions during the later phases of the pandemic and beyond. The objective of our study was to describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary care teams’ delivery of mental health care. Methods A qualitative study using focus groups conducted with primary care teams in Ontario, Canada. Focus group data was analysed using thematic analysis. Results We conducted 11 focus groups with 10 primary care teams and a total of 48 participants. With respect to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health care in primary care teams, we identified three key themes: i) the high demand for mental health care, ii) the rapid transformation to virtual care, and iii) the impact on providers. Conclusions From the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care quickly responded to the rising mental health care demands of their patients. Despite the numerous challenges they faced with the rapid transition to virtual care, primary care teams have persevered. It is essential that policy and decision-makers take note of the toll that these demands have placed on providers. There is an immediate need to enhance primary care’s capacity for mental health care for the duration of the pandemic and beyond.

scholarly journals Conceptions of the professionals about their attributions in the Expanded Nucleus of Family Health

Psico-USF ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 24 (4) ◽  
pp. 661-671
Author(s):  
Meyrielle Belotti ◽  
Alexandra Iglesias ◽  
Luziane Zacché Avellar
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Content Analysis ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Health Professionals ◽  
Family Health ◽  
Work Processes ◽  
The Family ◽  
Specialized Care

Abstract The article aims to analyze the conceptions conferred by the health professionals that compose the Expanded Nuclei of Family Health (NASF) on their work assignments. This is a qualitative research, in which was used, for the data collection, eight focus groups, with a total of 43 participants. The data were submitted to content analysis. The results outlined the following categories: integrating NASF work with the Family Health Teams (ESF); developing specialized care; promoting intersectionality; contributing to the promotion of teamwork in Primary Care (AB) and strengthening AB. The study indicates the importance of a better understanding of the functions of the NASF, so that it does not restrict the opportunity to perform specialized care in AB. It is pointed out, the need for adjustments in the work processes of the ESF, in order to enable the shared work in the AB.

scholarly journals What are the opportunities for cancer care and related research in primary care? A qualitative study of the views of patients, carers, and practice staff

2019 ◽  
Vol 69 (suppl 1) ◽  
pp. bjgp19X703505
Author(s):  
Joseph Clark ◽  
Elvis Amoakwa ◽  
John Blenkinsopp ◽  
Florence Reedy ◽  
Miriam Johnson
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Palliative Care ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Cancer Care ◽  
Information Needs ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Unmet Need ◽  
Care Staff ◽  
Trial Participation

BackgroundResearch to identify the role of primary care in cancer care is important. However, trials in primary care are difficult.AimTo understand how patients, families, and primary care clinicians view their role in cancer care and identify opportunities for cancer primary care research.MethodQualitative study embedded within a feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial of a primary care based needs assessment intervention. The Supportive Cancer Needs Survey (SCNS) was the main outcome. In-depth interviews with patients/carers and focus groups with primary care staff explored views on cancer care and trial participation. Data were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically by three independent researchers.ResultsFifteen cancer patients and three carers were interviewed and four focus groups (n = 11) were conducted. Three themes were generated satisfaction with current care; key time-points for improved cancer care; and information and research. Satisfaction with current care among patients was high in spite of 72% reporting at least one moderate-high unmet need at baseline. Most patients undergoing cancer treatment were unsure when to access primary care. Patients and carers highly valued proactive contact from their practice following diagnosis though this was uncommon. Post-oncology discharge was a key time-point for information needs and support for patients. Patients were reluctant to consider palliative care in spite of palliative care needs. Some felt therapeutic benefit from completing study measures.ConclusionPatients are satisfied with cancer primary care despite unmet needs. Palliative care is poorly understood by many who may benefit. Research participation may benefit some patients.

Influence of Environmental Design on Team Interactions Across Three Family Medicine Clinics: Perceptions of Communication, Efficiency, and Privacy

2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 159-173 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zaher Karp ◽  
Sandra Kamnetz ◽  
Natalie Wietfeldt ◽  
Christine Sinsky ◽  
Todd Molfenter ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Family Medicine ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Primary Care Clinic ◽  
Environmental Design ◽  
Communication Styles ◽  
Interaction Patterns ◽  
Patient Contact ◽  
Care Clinic ◽  
Communication Efficiency

Objective: In this study, we explored how two different primary care clinic physical layouts (onstage/offstage and pod-based [PB] designs) influenced pre- and postvisit team experiences and perceptions. Background: Protocols encourage healthcare team communication before and after primary care visits to support better patient care. Physical clinic environments may influence these behaviors, but limited research has been performed. Method: We conducted observations, three interviews with clinic managers, and six focus groups with 21 providers and staff at three family medicine teaching clinics. Observational data were captured through field notes and spaghetti diagrams. Interviews and focus groups were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a grounded theory-based approach to understand how aspects of the clinic environment affected communication, efficiency, and privacy. Results: Variations in communication styles and trade-offs between patient contact and privacy emerged as differences. In the onstage/offstage design, colocated teams had increased verbal communication but perceived being isolated from other clinic teams. In contrast, teams in PB clinics communicated with other clinic teams but had more informal patient contact within care-team stations that imposed privacy risk. Conclusions: Primary care clinic design appears to alter provider–team and patient–provider communication and flow. Organizations should consider aligning environmental design with desired interaction patterns when building new primary care clinics.

scholarly journals Diagnosis and Management of UTI in Primary Care Settings—A Qualitative Study to Inform a Diagnostic Quick Reference Tool for Women Under 65 Years

Antibiotics ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (9) ◽  
pp. 581
Author(s):  
Emily Cooper ◽  
Leah Jones ◽  
Annie Joseph ◽  
Rosie Allison ◽  
Natalie Gold ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Nurse Practitioners ◽  
Respiratory Infections ◽  
Theoretical Domains Framework ◽  
Signs And Symptoms ◽  
Diagnosis And Management ◽  
Skill Gaps ◽  
Management Guidance ◽  
Tract Infections

Background: To inform interventions to improve antimicrobial use in urinary tract infections (UTIs) and contribute to a reduction in Escherichia coli bloodstream infection, we explored factors influencing the diagnosis and management of UTIs in primary care. Design: Semi-structured focus groups informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework. Setting: General practice (GP) surgeries in two English clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), June 2017 to March 2018. Participants: A total of 57 GP staff within 8 focus groups. Results: Staff were very aware of common UTI symptoms and nitrofurantoin as first-line treatment, but some were less aware about when to send a urine culture, second-line and non-antibiotic management, and did not probe for signs and symptoms to specifically exclude vaginal causes or pyelonephritis before prescribing. Many consultations were undertaken over the phone, many by nurse practitioners, and followed established protocols that often included urine dipsticks and receptionists. Patient expectations increased use of urine dipsticks, and immediate and 5 days courses of antibiotics. Management decisions were also influenced by patient co-morbidities. No participants had undertaken recent UTI audits. Patient discussions around antibiotic resistance and back-up antibiotics were uncommon compared to consultations for respiratory infections. Conclusions: Knowledge and skill gaps could be addressed with education and clear, accessible, UTI diagnostic and management guidance and protocols that are also appropriate for phone consultations. Public antibiotic campaigns and patient-facing information should cover UTIs, non-pharmaceutical recommendations for “self-care”, prevention and rationale for 3 days antibiotic courses. Practices should be encouraged to audit UTI management.

scholarly journals Perceptions of Malaysian medical students from different academic years on primary care: a qualitative research

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. e000188
Author(s):  
Sook Ching Chan ◽  
Jaya Vinoshairine Ganeson ◽  
Jee Tat Ong ◽  
Sandheep Sugathan
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Medical Students ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Primary Care Practice ◽  
Care Practice ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Medical College ◽  
Career Pathway

ObjectiveTo explore the perception of medical students from a private medical college in Perak, Malaysia, on primary care practice and induce the factors influencing their perception and willingness to consider primary care as a career pathway.DesignQualitative study using focus group discussions. Participants’ responses were audio recorded, transcribed, grouped under various domains and listed out and analysed.SettingA private medical college in Perak state, Malaysia.ParticipantsForty-six medical students from years 2 to 5 were included. Eight focus groups were formed with two focus groups from each academic year (six students each in seven groups and four students in one group). Students were informed through their respective student leader of each year and received a participant information sheet and an informed consent form which were completed and returned if they decided to participate in the focus group discussions.ResultsThe participants had different levels of understanding of primary care depending on their level of exposure to primary care. Senior students with more exposure had a better understanding about primary care and its services. Attractive factors towards choosing primary care as a career included short working hours with a more balanced family and social life, being able to treat patients as a whole with continuity of care and closer relationship with patients. Unattractive factors included routine, unchallenging and boring practice, poor salary, work overload and administrative work in government clinics, being less recognised by other specialties; and the poor perception by other doctors that those pursuing primary care were not ‘brilliant enough’ for more ‘sophisticated disciplines like surgery or paediatrics’.ConclusionThis study showed that the medical students’ level of exposure to primary care played a crucial role in determining their understanding of primary care practice and their choice of career in primary care. Issues to be addressed include remuneration, workload and the prejudice against primary care as a career pathway. Suggestions included introducing early exposure to fun and challenging primary care postings in the medical curriculum and producing well trained, skilled and enthusiastic role models.

scholarly journals Enhancing primary care services for diverse sexual and gender minority populations: a developmental study protocol

BMJ Open ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. e032787 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cathleen Willging ◽  
Miria Kano ◽  
Amy Elizabeth Green ◽  
Robert Sturm ◽  
Marisa Sklar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Study Protocol ◽  
Practice Guidelines ◽  
Nominal Group ◽  
Developmental Study ◽  
Patient Needs ◽  
Gender Minority ◽  
Sexual And Gender Minority ◽  
And Gender

IntroductionCompared with heterosexual, cisgender populations, sexual and gender minority (SGM) people are more likely to suffer from serious health conditions and insufficient access to health services. Primary care is at the frontlines of healthcare delivery; yet, few clinics have resources or mechanisms in place to meet SGM patient needs. This developmental study protocol focuses on reducing health disparities among SGM patients by identifying, adapting and developing SGM practice guidelines/recommendations and implementation strategies for primary care clinics in urban and rural New Mexico. Using input from patients, healthcare advocates and providers, and researchers, the study will pilot a practice parameter and implementation toolkit to promote SGM-specific cultural competence at multiple service delivery levels.Methods and analysisWe will recruit providers/staff from four Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) serving ethnically and geographically diverse communities. Incorporating the Implementation of Change Model and an intersectionality perspective, data collection includes a systematic review of SGM-specific practice guidelines/recommendations, focus groups and semistructured interviews, quantitative surveys and the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) with providers/staff. We will categorise guidelines/recommendations identified through the review by shared elements, use iterative processes of open and focused coding to analyse qualitative data from focus groups, interviews and the NGT, and apply descriptive statistics to assess survey data. Findings will provide the foundation for the toolkit. Focus groups with SGM patients will yield supplemental information for toolkit refinement. To investigate changes in primary care contexts following the toolkit’s pilot, we will undertake systematic walkthroughs and document review at the FQHCs, analysing these data qualitatively to examine SGM inclusiveness. The structured data-informed Plan-Do-Study-Act method will enable further revision of the toolkit. Finally, focus groups, interviews and quantitative surveys with providers/staff will highlight changes made in the FQHCs to address SGM patient needs, barriers to sustainment of changes, satisfaction, acceptability, usability and feasibility of the toolkit.Ethics and disseminationThe study has been reviewed and approved by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation Institutional Review Board. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants before their involvement in research activities begins. Study results will be actively disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, social media and the internet, and community/stakeholder engagement activities.

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