Mohna Sharma1, Tim Usherwood. 1. MBBS, FRACGP, MPH MBChB MPH FRACGP, General Practitioner and Lecturer - General Practice Placement Support, Department of General Practice, University of Sydney, NSW.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to explore the reasons prompting Australian parents to seek medical advice for their sick children, and to define the factors influencing their decision. International data suggest non-clinical reasons for general practitioner (GP) visits. METHODS: Twenty-two parents from eight general practices were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire while they waited to see their GP. The interviews were tape-recorded, de-identified, transcribed and analysed thematically. RESULTS: Five emergent themes were fears about possible scenarios; personal and vicarious experiences; resources and convenience; being seen to do the right thing; and reassurance and guidance about management. DISCUSSION: Parents reported several reasons for seeking medical advice for their sick child and often a combination of factors influenced their decision, consistent with research findings from other countries. Awareness and understanding of this decision-making process could significantly improve primary care for patients in Australia and contribute to training of medical students and GP registrars.
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to explore the reasons prompting Australian parents to seek medical advice for their sick children, and to define the factors influencing their decision. International data suggest non-clinical reasons for general practitioner (GP) visits. METHODS: Twenty-two parents from eight general practices were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire while they waited to see their GP. The interviews were tape-recorded, de-identified, transcribed and analysed thematically. RESULTS: Five emergent themes were fears about possible scenarios; personal and vicarious experiences; resources and convenience; being seen to do the right thing; and reassurance and guidance about management. DISCUSSION: Parents reported several reasons for seeking medical advice for their sick child and often a combination of factors influenced their decision, consistent with research findings from other countries. Awareness and understanding of this decision-making process could significantly improve primary care for patients in Australia and contribute to training of medical students and GP registrars.
Authors: E Nicholson; T McDonnell; A De Brún; M Barrett; G Bury; C Collins; C Hensey; E McAuliffe Journal: BMC Health Serv Res Date: 2020-07-17 Impact factor: 2.655