The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
-
A considerable proportion of GPs' workload is dermatological. It is important to investigate what common skin conditions encountered in primary care can be self-managed, in an effort to alleviate the burden on primary care. ⋯ Certain dermatological conditions have more potential for self-management than others. Research into teledermatology as a means of addressing patient concern and providing clinical information is important in order to reduce unnecessary consultations.
-
The research on the benefits, disadvantages and factors that affect appointment length in general practice is fragmented. There is a need to draw the evidence together and who better to assess this than those on the front line. ⋯ Most doctors would like longer appointments. In light of the concern about appointment availability, there needs to be research into whether this would substantiate.
-
Anxiety and psychological trauma are common presentations in general practice and may lead to long-term prescribing and/or time-consuming talking therapies. ⋯ The acceptability and effectiveness of a new therapeutic approach were demonstrated by presenting them in a show at the Edinburgh Fringe.
-
Involving patients and carers in decisions that influence the delivery of health services is a statutory requirement across the NHS. However, current evidence suggests a gap exists between the theory, legislation and policy intentions and their practical implementation. ⋯ The literature suggests that no existing framework addresses all three key themes. Therefore, a revised framework for involvement was developed, informed by the three key themes, that can be tested across a larger sample and different healthcare settings.
-
Observational Study
Association between National Early Warning Scores in primary care and clinical outcomes: an observational study in UK primary and secondary care.
NHS England has mandated use of the National Early Warning Score (NEWS), more recently NEWS2, in acute settings, and suggested its use in primary care. However, there is reluctance from GPs to adopt NEWS/NEWS2. ⋯ This study has demonstrated that higher NEWS values calculated at GP referral into hospital are associated with a faster medical review and poorer clinical outcomes.