Jeannine Liddle1, Lindy Clemson1,2, Lynette Mackenzie1, Meryl Lovarini1, Amy Tan1, Sabrina W Pit3,4, Chris Roberts5, Anne Tiedemann6, Cathie Sherrington6, Karen Willis7,8. 1. Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Lidcombe, New South Wales, Australia. 2. CEPAR-ARC Centre of Excellence in Population Ageing Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. 3. University Centre for Rural Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. 4. School of Medicine, Medical School, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. 5. Sydney Medical School-Northern, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. 6. Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. 7. School of Allied Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. 8. Allied Health, Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To explore influences on referral for fall prevention from general practitioners (GPs) to allied health professionals (AHPs) to better equip AHPs engage with GPs regarding fall prevention. METHODS: Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with GPs (n = 24), practice nurses (n = 3) and AHPs (n = 15) and field notes were analysed inductively using constant comparative methods. RESULTS: Three main themes regarding influences on GP referral to AHPs for fall prevention were identified as follows: GPs' knowledge of AHPs; The "reliable and good" AHP; and Patient feedback-Patient choice. Three-way communication and trust between GP, patient and AHP underpinned each of these themes. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies for encouraging GP referral include AHPs personally contacting GPs to explain their services; writing to GPs about every patient seen; and being aware that interprofessional relationships are based on trust and take time to develop. GPs and AHPs are encouraged to communicate directly rather than relying on patients to convey verbal information.
OBJECTIVE: To explore influences on referral for fall prevention from general practitioners (GPs) to allied health professionals (AHPs) to better equip AHPs engage with GPs regarding fall prevention. METHODS: Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with GPs (n = 24), practice nurses (n = 3) and AHPs (n = 15) and field notes were analysed inductively using constant comparative methods. RESULTS: Three main themes regarding influences on GP referral to AHPs for fall prevention were identified as follows: GPs' knowledge of AHPs; The "reliable and good" AHP; and Patient feedback-Patient choice. Three-way communication and trust between GP, patient and AHP underpinned each of these themes. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies for encouraging GP referral include AHPs personally contacting GPs to explain their services; writing to GPs about every patient seen; and being aware that interprofessional relationships are based on trust and take time to develop. GPs and AHPs are encouraged to communicate directly rather than relying on patients to convey verbal information.