Symptom experience before diagnosis of upper GI cancer

Oesophageal and gastric cancers often present late, with 70% in the UK diagnosed in stages III and IV. Humphrys and colleagues explored patients’ understanding and experience of symptoms before diagnosis. Early symptoms were often normalised, with initial self-management of multiple symptoms.

The experience of primary care for people living with HIV

People living with HIV can be dissatisfied with the services they receive in primary care. Rai and colleagues in London used a mixed methods approach to explore the experience for people with HIV. Two-thirds reported a good experience with their GP, and actual or perceived stigma was associated with poor satisfaction. The best GPs offered continuity and time, and accepted them without judgement. 

Deep End GP: the view from western Sydney

What are the challenges of delivering care to a disadvantaged urban community in Western Sydney, Australia? Reath and colleagues interviewed 57 participants, some of whom felt the Australian fee-for-service model values volume over quality, and many of whom felt fragmentation of the healthcare system was a barrier to good care. The authors call for a transformation of Australian primary care to address the needs of people in marginalised urban settings.