Understanding Why GPs Refer Patients for X-rays of the Back
Author Information
Author(s): Rachel Baker, Jan Lecouturier, Senga Bond
Primary Institution: School of Population and Health Sciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
Hypothesis
This study aims to explain variation in GPs' referral rates for lumbar spine x-ray (LSX) based on their management accounts of patients with low back pain.
Conclusion
Key factors differentiate the accounts of GPs with high and low referral rates for LSX, despite their awareness of clinical guidelines.
Supporting Evidence
- GPs are aware of clinical guidelines but still vary in their referral practices.
- Patient pressure and the desire to reassure patients influence GPs' decisions.
- High-users of LSX often perceive their use as lower than it is.
Takeaway
Doctors sometimes send patients for back x-rays even when it's not needed because they want to make patients feel better and avoid complaints.
Methodology
Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 29 GPs categorized by high and low referral rates for LSX.
Potential Biases
The purposive sampling strategy may introduce selection bias.
Limitations
The sample is not representative, and the findings may not reflect changes in healthcare organization since the study.
Participant Demographics
{"gender":{"male":24,"female":5},"frequency_of_use_of_LSX":{"high":14,"low":15},"type_of_area":{"urban":26,"rural":3},"years_since_qualified":{"<20_years":17,">20_years":12},"working_hours":{"full_time":24,"part_time":5}}
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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