Family practice
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Couple relationship problems are common and associated with health problems. The aim of this study was to explore general practitioners' (GPs') experiences, expectations, and educational needs when dealing with couple relationship problems in consultations. ⋯ This study revealed several paradoxes. GPs are confident in offering individual supportive therapy for couple relationship issues but should be aware of substantial pitfalls such as side-taking and constraining change. Despite dealing with relationship problems, GPs do not see themselves as therapists. They use professional and personal experience but would benefit from increasing their skills in cognitive restructuring promoting behavioural flexibility facing relationship problems.
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Low-carbohydrate and high-fat (LCHF) diets are shown to have health benefits such as weight loss and improved cardiovascular health. Few studies, however, on LCHF diets have been completed in a real-world primary care setting over an extended period of time. ⋯ Improvements in weight and BMI indicate the utility of providing LCHF health promotion interventions in primary care settings. Greater compliance to LCHF interventions results in greater improvement in laboratory and anthropometric outcomes, including HbA1c.
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Peer support programmes that provide services for various health conditions have been in existence for many years; however, there is little study of their benefits and challenges. Our goal was to explore how existing peer support programmes help patients with a variety of health conditions, the challenges that these programmes meet, and how they are addressed. ⋯ Peer support programmes can help persons and caregivers manage health conditions but also face challenges that need to be addressed through organizational processes. Peer support programmes have relevance for improving healthcare systems, especially given the increased focus on becoming more patient-centred. Further study of peer programmes and their relevance to improving individuals' well-being is warranted.
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Quality clusters were introduced as a quality improvement concept in Danish general practice in 2018. This new concept anchored quality improvement in local clusters managed by general practitioners (GPs). ⋯ Frequent and active meetings with a relevant meeting content are positively related to GPs' perceived benefits and with improved collaboration between GPs in the clusters. There seems to be a potential for developing collaboration with other healthcare providers.
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Collaborative care models (CCMs) have robust research evidence in improving mental health outcomes for diverse patient populations with complex health care needs. However, the impact of CCMs on primary care provider (PCP) outcomes are not well described. ⋯ Accumulating evidence supports CCM expansion, to improve both patient and PCP outcomes. Logistical efforts may enhance CCM adaptability and workflow. Further studies are needed to specifically examine the effect of CCMs on PCP burnout and retention.