How GPs Understand Consultation Outcomes
Author Information
Author(s): Andén Annika, Andersson Sven-Olof, Rudebeck Carl-Edvard
Hypothesis
The study aims to explore GPs' conceptions of consultation outcomes.
Conclusion
GPs conceive outcomes in four ways: patient outcomes, self-evaluation, relationship building, and changes in surgery routines.
Supporting Evidence
- GPs described patient outcomes as a goal for consultations.
- Self-evaluation by GPs was influenced by internalized professional norms.
- Building relationships with patients was seen as an important outcome.
- Changes in surgery routines were identified as outcomes of consultations.
Takeaway
This study shows that doctors think about how their consultations affect patients in different ways, like helping them feel better or building a good relationship.
Methodology
Interviews with 17 GPs were conducted in groups and individually, analyzed using a phenomenographic approach.
Potential Biases
The GPs' self-evaluations may be influenced by perceived professional norms and collegial consensus.
Limitations
The study may not capture all possible outcomes as it relies on GPs' perceptions and may be influenced by previous consultations.
Participant Demographics
The GPs had a medium age of 51, with a mix of genders and years of experience ranging from six months to 28 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website