scholarly journals Emotions in the Time of COVID-19: Affections and Impacts among the Spanish Primary Care Workforce

Healthcare ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (12) ◽  
pp. 1723
Author(s):  
Montserrat Pulido-Fuentes ◽  
Juan Antonio Flores-Martos ◽  
Luisa Abad-González ◽  
María Victoria Navarta-Sánchez ◽  
Laura Valera-Oviedo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Psychological Impact ◽  
Hospital Staff ◽  
Emotional Impact ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Self Reflection ◽  
Primary Care Workforce ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
Emotional Strain

Background: The literature review shows that most studies on the psychological impact of COVID-19 on healthcare professionals have focused on hospital staff, with few specifically addressing the primary care workforce. This study aims to explore primary care workers’ verbal accounts of the emotions they experienced. Methods: This is a qualitative study carried out between July and December 2020 in Spain. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with primary care workers. Data were analysed through thematic content analysis. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Results: A total of 53 primary care workers participated in the study, of whom 38 were individually interviewed, and 15 participated in three focus groups. Our analysis revealed themes in two categories: (1) from infection to affection; and (2) affected, but not patients—a discourse based on the acceptance of their experience as part of their work in primary care, creating an ideological construct or “shield” based on emotional self-management. Conclusions: Self-reflection on the emotional impact of COVID-19 is scarce. Examples of emotional affections include an obsessive focus on hygiene, the inability to establish clear boundaries between the personal and the professional spheres, and experiencing—and having to self-manage—emotional strain.

scholarly journals Effects of mindfulness training on perceived stress, self-compassion, and self-reflection of primary care physicians: a mixed-methods study

BJGP Open ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. bjgpopen18X101621 ◽  
Author(s):  
Herman van Wietmarschen ◽  
Bram Tjaden ◽  
Marja van Vliet ◽  
Marieke Battjes-Fries ◽  
Miek Jong
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Primary Care Physicians ◽  
Mindfulness Training ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Self Reflection ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
High Workload ◽  
Compassion Scale

BackgroundPrimary care physicians are subjected to a high workload, which can lead to stress and a high incidence of burnout. A mindfulness training course was developed and implemented for primary care physicians to better cope with stress and improve job functioning.AimTo gain insight into the effects of the mindfulness training on perceived stress, self-compassion, and self-reflection of primary care physicians.Design & settingA pragmatic mixed-methods pre–post design in which physicians received 8 weeks of mindfulness training.MethodParticipants completed validated questionnaires on perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale [PSS]), self-compassion (Self-Compassion Scale [SCS]), and self-reflection (Groningen Reflection Ability Scale [GRAS]) before the training, directly after, and 6 months later. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six participants after the training and a content analysis was performed to gain in depth understanding of experiences.ResultsA total of 54 physicians participated in the study. PSS was reduced (mean difference [MD] -4.5, P<0.001), SCS improved (MD = 0.5, P<0.001), and GRAS improved (MD = 3.3, P<0.001), directly after the 8-week training compared with before training. Six months later, PSS was still reduced (MD = -2.9, P = 0.025) and SCS improved (MD = 0.7, P<0.001). GRAS did not remain significant (MD = 2.5, P = 0.120). Qualitative analysis revealed four themes: being more aware of their own feelings and thoughts; being better able to accept situations; experiencing more peacefulness; and having more openness to the self and others.ConclusionMindfulness training might be an effective approach for improving stress resilience, self-compassion, and self-reflection in primary care physicians.

What do HIV-positive patients in Plymouth think about sharing details of their HIV status with other health-care workers?

2012 ◽  
Vol 23 (9) ◽  
pp. 647-648 ◽  
Author(s):  
Z Warwick ◽  
R Lillicrap
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Hospital Staff ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Hiv Care ◽  
Hiv Positive ◽  
Hiv Status ◽  
Opt Out ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
Genitourinary Medicine

We carried out a prospective structured interview with 71% of the HIV cohort in Plymouth to establish patients’ views on recording HIV status and details of HIV care in routine hospital and primary care notes. Forty-nine percent of patients did not want their HIV status routinely documented in hospital notes and 57% did not want hospital staff to have access to results of sexual health screens (SHSs). In light of these results, we plan to offer patients the option to opt out of using hospital notes for documentation of their HIV care and will be providing SHSs under a separate genitourinary medicine (GU) patient number.

Impact of the Christchurch Earthquakes on Hospital Staff

2013 ◽  
Vol 28 (3) ◽  
pp. 245-250 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pleayo Tovaranonte ◽  
Tom J. Cawood
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Impact ◽  
General Medicine ◽  
Hospital Staff ◽  
Financial Impact ◽  
Emotional Impact ◽  
Published Data ◽  
Publication Type ◽  
Loss Of Life ◽  
Personal Impact ◽  
The Impact

AbstractIntroductionOn September 4, 2010 a major earthquake caused widespread damage, but no loss of life, to Christchurch city and surrounding areas. There were numerous aftershocks, including on February 22, 2011 which, in contrast, caused substantial loss of life and major damage to the city. The research aim was to assess how these two earthquakes affected the staff in the General Medicine Department at Christchurch Hospital.ProblemTo date there have been no published data assessing the impact of this type of natural disaster on hospital staff in Australasia.MethodsA questionnaire that examined seven domains (demographics, personal impact, psychological impact, emotional impact, impact on care for patients, work impact, and coping strategies) was handed out to General Medicine staff and students nine days after the September 2010 earthquake and 14 days after the February 2011 earthquake.ResultsResponse rates were ≥ 99%. Sixty percent of responders were <30 years of age, and approximately 60% were female. Families of eight percent and 35% had to move to another place due to the September and February earthquakes, respectively. A fifth to a third of people had to find an alternative route of transport to get to work but only eight percent to 18% took time off work. Financial impact was more severe following the February earthquake, with 46% reporting damage of >NZ $1,000, compared with 15% following the September earthquake (P < .001). Significantly more people felt upset about the situation following the February earthquake than the September earthquake (42% vs 69%, P < .001). Almost a quarter thought that quality of patient care was affected in some way following the September earthquake but this rose to 53% after the February earthquake (12/53 vs 45/85, P < .001). Half believed that discharges were delayed following the September earthquake but this dropped significantly to 15% following the February earthquake (27/53 vs 13/62, P < .001).ConclusionThis survey provides a measure of the result of two major but contrasting Christchurch earthquakes upon General Medicine hospital staff. The effect was widespread with minor financial impact during the first but much more during the second earthquake. Moderate psychological impact was experienced in both earthquakes. This data may be useful to help prepare plans for future natural disasters.TovaranonteP, CawoodTJ. Impact of the Christchurch earthquakes on hospital staff. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2013;28(3):1-6.

scholarly journals Identifying goals, roles and tasks of extended scope physiotherapy in Dutch primary care- an exploratory, qualitative multi-step study

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ferdinand Bastiaens ◽  
Di-Janne Barten ◽  
Cindy Veenhof
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
General Practitioners ◽  
Scoping Review ◽  
Healthcare Costs ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Organization Transformation ◽  
Stakeholder Perspectives ◽  
Study Population ◽  
Health Demand

Abstract Background Rising healthcare costs, an increasing general practitioner shortage and an aging population have made healthcare organization transformation a priority. To meet these challenges, traditional roles of non-medical members have been reconsidered. Within the domain of physiotherapy, there has been significant interest in Extended Scope Physiotherapy (ESP). Although studies have focused on the perceptions of different stakeholders in relation to ESP, there is a large variety in the interpretation of ESP. Aim: To identify a paradigm of ESP incorporating goals, roles and tasks, to provide a consistent approach for the implementation of ESP in primary care. Methods An exploratory, qualitative multi-step design was used containing a scoping review, focus groups and semi-structured interviews. The study population consisted of patients, physiotherapists, general practitioners and indirect stakeholders such as lecturers, health insurers and policymakers related to primary care physiotherapy. The main topics discussed in the focus groups and semi-structured interviews were the goals, skills and roles affiliated with ESP. The ‘framework’ method, developed by Ritchie & Spencer, was used as analytical approach to refine the framework. Results Two focus groups and twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore stakeholder perspectives on ESP in Dutch primary care. A total of 11 physiotherapists, six general practitioners, five patients and four indirect stakeholders participated in the study. There was a lot of support for ‘decreasing healthcare costs’, ‘tackling increased health demand’ and ‘improving healthcare effectiveness’ as main goals of ESP. The most agreement was reached on ‘triaging’, ‘referring to specialists’ and ‘ordering diagnostic imaging’ as tasks fitting for ESP. Most stakeholders also supported ‘working in a multidisciplinary team’, ‘working as a consultant’ and ‘an ESP role separated from a physiotherapist role’ as roles of ESP. Conclusions Based on the scoping review, focus groups and interviews with direct and indirect stakeholders, it appears that there is sufficient support for ESP in the Netherlands. This study provides a clear presentation of how ESP can be conceptualized in primary care. A pilot focused on determining the feasibility of ESP in Dutch primary care will be the next step.

scholarly journals Psychological Impact of Downsizing on Survivor-Managers in a Developing Economy

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 53-70
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Contract ◽  
Psychological Impact ◽  
High Rate ◽  
Practice Research ◽  
Emotional Impact ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Contract Breach ◽  
Individual Motivation ◽  
Human Resources Managers

Despite the importance of psychological wellbeing of survivors to the attainment of the envisaged goal of the downsizing practice, research on this group of workers is still limited particularly in Nigeria. The study aims at exploring the psychological impact of downsizing on survivor managers in Nigeria using a qualitative research approach. More specifically, unstructured and semi-structured interviews were carried out at different stages with a total of 20 interviewees. Data were analysed and coded using a data-driven thematic analysis. The finding revealed that anxiety, a feeling of uncertainty, insecurity of job, reduction in individual motivation and poor communication influenced the survivors negatively. These negative psychological and emotional impact exhibited by the survivor employees are linked to lack of jobs, high rate of unemployment, and lack of social security and culture. The outcome of the study would provide implications for human resources managers in Nigeria who often deal with downsizing and engaged in psychological contract breach.

scholarly journals Managing older people’s perceptions of alcohol-related risk: a qualitative exploration in Northern English primary care

2020 ◽  
Vol 70 (701) ◽  
pp. e916-e926
Author(s):  
Bethany Kate Bareham ◽  
Eileen Kaner ◽  
Barbara Hanratty
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Primary Care ◽  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Older People ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Primary Care Practitioners ◽  
Types Of Information ◽  
People’S Perceptions

BackgroundRisk of harm from drinking increases with age as alcohol affects health conditions and medications that are common in later life. Different types of information and experiences affect older people’s perceptions of alcohol’s effects, which must be navigated when supporting healthier decisions on alcohol consumption.AimTo explore how older people understand the effects of alcohol on their health; and how these perspectives are navigated in supportive discussions in primary care to promote healthier alcohol use.Design and settingA qualitative study consisting of semi-structured interviews and focus groups with older, non-dependent drinkers and primary care practitioners in Northern England.MethodA total of 24 older adults aged ≥65 years and 35 primary care practitioners participated in interviews and focus groups. Data were analysed thematically, applying principles of constant comparison.ResultsOlder adults were motivated to make changes to their alcohol use when they experienced symptoms, and if they felt that limiting consumption would enable them to maintain their quality of life. The results of alcohol-related screening were useful in providing insights into potential effects for individuals. Primary care practitioners motivated older people to make healthier decisions by highlighting individual risks of drinking, and potential gains of limiting intake.ConclusionLater life is a time when older people may be open to making changes to their alcohol use, particularly when suggested by practitioners. Older people can struggle to recognise potential risks or perceive little gain in acting on perceived risks. Such perceptions may be challenging to navigate in supportive discussions.

scholarly journals An Exploration of the Psychological Impact of Hacking Victimization

SAGE Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 215824402110615
Author(s):  
Alexa Palassis ◽  
Craig P. Speelman ◽  
Julie Ann Pooley
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Impact ◽  
Phenomenological Approach ◽  
Emotional Impact ◽  
Sense Of Control ◽  
Digital Environment ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Digital Space ◽  
Specific Effects ◽  
Adverse Impacts ◽  
And Coping

Cybercrime has rapidly grown in prevalence and potential for harm and disruption for victims. Studies have examined the adverse psychological impact of cybercrime for victims; however, the specific effects for victims of hacking are unexplored. The present study aimed to investigate the psychological impacts of hacking victimization through exploration of the experience of victims of hacking. The study employed an in-depth phenomenological approach to explore the experiences of 11 victims of hacking. Semi-structured interviews were used as a tool for data collection, and thematic analysis of the data revealed four main themes: emotional impact; an increased sense of vulnerability; a sense of violation; and coping strategies. The findings highlight that hacking may have significant consequences for victims, and further, that hacking may represent an intrusion into a victim’s “digital space.” Recommendations are discussed for providing support to victims through measures aimed at increasing victim’s self-efficacy, sense of control over their digital environment, and increasing community awareness about the potential adverse impacts for victims of hacking.

scholarly journals Barriers to self-management of chronic pain in primary care: a qualitative focus group study

2016 ◽  
Vol 67 (656) ◽  
pp. e209-e217 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katy Gordon ◽  
Helen Rice ◽  
Nick Allcock ◽  
Pamela Bell ◽  
Martin Dunbar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Chronic Pain ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Emotional Impact ◽  
Focus Group Study ◽  
Care Services ◽  
Primary Care Services ◽  
The Impact

BackgroundSupported self-management is a recommended intervention for chronic pain. Effective self-management should enable an individual to reduce the impact of pain on their everyday life. Clinical guidelines suggest primary care services have a role to play in supporting self-management of chronic pain.AimTo examine the opinions of primary care healthcare professionals (HCPs) and people with chronic pain and their carers, in order to identify possible barriers to the facilitation and adoption of self-management.Design and settingA qualitative study using focus groups in locations throughout Scotland.MethodEighteen focus groups were held with patients and HCPs. Fifty-four patients, nine carers, and 38 HCPs attended the groups.ResultsFour categories of barriers were found. 1) Patient–HCP consultation: some patients felt a discussion about self-management came too late or not at all. Communication and building positive relations were sometimes challenging. 2) Patient experience: the emotional impact of pain was difficult and patients often felt unsupported by HCPs. 3) Limited treatment options: some participants felt there was a tendency for overmedicalisation. 4) Organisational constraints: short appointment times, long waiting lists, and a compartmentalised NHS created challenges.ConclusionThis study illustrates some of the barriers faced by HCPs and patients in the facilitation and adoption of self-management of chronic pain. If self-management is to be an important approach to chronic pain, primary care services need to be designed to address the barriers identified.

Primary Care

2011 ◽  
pp. 462-485 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anthony Scott ◽  
Stephen Jan
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Health Care Systems ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Primary Care Workforce ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
Care Systems ◽  
Key Issues ◽  
Improve Access ◽  
Improve Health

The aim of this article is to review the evidence on the role of primary care in health care systems. It focuses on the key issues and evidence from both developed and developing countries and from an economics perspective. It defines the main features of primary care and how these are evolving across countries. It provides an overview of the evidence on whether an expansion or strengthening of primary care improve health outcomes, reduce costs, and improve access. This article also addresses issues around the financing of primary care and the remuneration of primary care workers. It examines the most cost-effective ways to ensure the adequate supply of the primary care workforce in the context of the labor market for primary care workers and global health workforce shortages.

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.

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