Scandinavian journal of primary health care
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Scand J Prim Health Care · Nov 2024
Medical encounters with young unaccompanied refugees: a qualitative study among general practitioners and physicians in migrant health clinics in Norway and Denmark.
This study examines the experiences of clinical encounters with young unaccompanied refugees in Norway and Denmark among both general practitioners (GPs) and physicians in migrant health clinics (MHC physicians), and it identifies important aspects that should be taken into consideration for improving the quality of healthcare for these patients. ⋯ Our results highlight how physicians' encounters with vulnerable young refugees actualize previously documented contrasts between holistic and instrumental approaches in clinical work. We argue that recognition in healthcare is conditional on physicians taking a holistic approach. This approach can help build relationships of trust and can support interdisciplinary collaboration. Moreover, such an approach can facilitate the essential components of Honneth's theory of recognition, namely social esteem and emotional support. Barriers to greater interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare services need to be addressed at the system level.
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Scand J Prim Health Care · Nov 2024
Exploring participants' characteristics and self-assessed readiness to conduct clinical trials in general practice - baseline analysis of the RaPHaeL practice-based research network.
Primary care is integral to healthcare systems extending beyond traditional illness management to include preventive care, chronic disease management, and health promotion. Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) have emerged as essential infrastructures for conducting clinical research in primary care. This study explores the establishment of the 'Research-Practices Halle-Leipzig' (RaPHaeL) PBRN in Germany, evaluating the characteristics and research readiness of participating practices. ⋯ This study highlights the variability in research readiness among GP practices and shows the need for targeted training. By systematically assessing and enhancing research capabilities of participating GPs, PBRNs can facilitate high-quality clinical research in primary care to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.
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Scand J Prim Health Care · Nov 2024
Validation of point-of-care tests used at in-home assessments among older adults in primary care.
Diagnosing acute disease in older adults is challenged by vague and atypical symptoms. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) at home may improve diagnostics and clinical decision-making. We compared various POCT devices to routine testing in acutely ill older adults to assess their clinical reliability. ⋯ POCT provides acceptable, clinically reliable measurements in acutely ill older adults, potentially enhancing diagnostics and treatments during in-home assessment. Venous blood testing is preferable due to a lower misclassification rate, but capillary blood remains a pragmatic alternative, despite higher variation and inaccuracy.
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Scand J Prim Health Care · Nov 2024
Photo-supported conversations about well-being (BeWellTM) for patients with exhaustion disorders - a controlled clinical intervention study.
Health-promotion approaches to address stress-related exhaustion disorders, reduce personal suffering, improve coping and participation in everyday life are needed in primary care. The aim of this study was to investigate self-reported health and well-being before and after an intervention focusing on well-being with photo-supported conversations (BeWellTM). ⋯ Stress-related symptoms decreased considerably over the treatment period for both groups. The potential benefit of the BeWell™, which was intended to facilitate recovery, needs to be further evaluated.