RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 What makes a good general practice consultation: an exploratory pilot study with people from a low socioeconomic background
JF BJGP Open
JO BJGP Open
FD Royal College of General Practitioners
SP BJGPO.2023.0160
DO 10.3399/BJGPO.2023.0160
A1 MacPherson, Naomi
A1 Ta, Binh
A1 Ball, Lauren
A1 Gunatillaka, Nilakshi
A1 Sturgiss, Elizabeth Ann
YR 2024
UL http://bjgpopen.org/content/early/2024/02/07/BJGPO.2023.0160.abstract
AB Background Whilst patients from low socioeconomic (SES) backgrounds are at increased risk of developing chronic health conditions, typically managed within general practice, they report less positive consultation experiences with general practitioners (GP). To our knowledge, existing research does not provide an in-depth understanding of GP conducts contribute to positive consultations.Aim To identify the factors that patients from low SES backgrounds perceive as essential for creating good consultation experiences.Design & setting This qualitative research was performed in Melbourne GP clinics.Method We used an appreciative inquiry approach, focused on positive consultation experiences, previously shown to be helpful for researching sensitive topics. Nine patients with low SES backgrounds who reported positive consultation experiences, undertook a semi-structured qualitative interview whilst watching the video-recording of their GP consultation. Four different GPs were captured in the recordings. Inductive thematic coding was performed by two researchers.Results Four categories were developed relating to: (1) the doctor’s demeanour and the patient’s feelings, (2) the therapeutic relationship, (3) the doctor’s therapeutic skill set and (4) communication techniques. In each interview, the discussion about the video-recorded consultation often triggered reflections about previous consultations with the respective GP.Conclusion For patients from low SES groups, positive consultation experiences were underpinned by perceived continuity of care with a specific GP who consistently showed good communication skills and key interpersonal characteristics. This research is a small step towards increasing our understanding of the experience of individuals with low SES backgrounds in primary care and the existing health inequities within this.