The European journal of general practice
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Previous studies show an association between a history of abuse and higher care demand. However, studies in general practice regarding help-seeking behaviour by patients (mainly male patients) with a history of abuse are scarce. ⋯ Compared to men and women without a history of abuse, men and women with a history of abuse visit their GP more often, particularly for psychological and social problems.
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Acute upper respiratory infections are the most common reason for primary physician visits in the community. This study investigated whether the type of antibiotic used to treat streptococcal tonsillitis can reduce the burden by affecting the number of additional visits. ⋯ Penicillin-V treatment is associated with fewer additional primary physician visits compared to other antibiotic treatments. Amoxicillin and penicillin-V are associated with fewer complications. These findings are limited by the retrospective nature of the study and lack of adjustment for illness severity. Further prospective studies may be warranted to validate results.
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General practitioners (GPs) use safety netting advice to communicate with patients when and how to seek further help when their condition fails to improve or deteriorate. Although many respiratory tract infections (RTI) during out-of-hours (OOH) care are self-limiting, often antibiotics are prescribed. Providing safety netting advice could enable GPs to safely withhold an antibiotic prescription by dealing both with their uncertainty and the patients' concerns. ⋯ We provided a better understanding of how safety netting is currently carried out in OOH primary care for RTIs. Safety netting advice during OOH primary care is limited, unspecific and not documented in the medical record.
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The general practitioner (GP) is central to managing patients with cancer, whose numbers are increasing worldwide. The GP's involvement requires better coordination between involved partners, in particular oncologists and GPs. ⋯ Remote participation of GPs in MCMs is feasible and may result in adapting oncological and haematological management for patients. This patient-centred approach requires a specific organisation that, when implemented, satisfies the needs of all participants.