The European journal of general practice
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Health policymakers have tried to improve the care pathway for cancer patients by improving collaboration between participating healthcare professionals by involving the general practitioner (GP). ⋯ In the cancer management in France, to improve cancer care pathway, there is a need to train healthcare professionals in interprofessional collaboration delivering care tailored to patient needs and preferences.
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5.4 million people in the UK have asthma, with one third experiencing suboptimal control, leading to co-morbidities and increased healthcare use. A quarter of people with long-term conditions informally access peer support through online health communities (OHCs). However, integrating online peer support into primary care services to facilitate self-management is a new concept. ⋯ Findings will assist clinicians in consultations about supporting self-management of patients through OHCs. Future research should evaluate feasibility, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of such support.
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Male urinary tract infections (mUTIs) are rare in primary care. The definition of mUTIs varies across countries. The therapeutic management of mUTIs in France is based on a 14-day course of fluoroquinolones despite a high risk of antimicrobial resistance. ⋯ GPs' experiences of mUTIs are limited due to low exposure and variable clinical presentations in primary care, representing a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. In order to modify GPs' antibiotic prescribing behaviours, a paradigm shift in the guidelines will need to be proposed.KEY MESSAGESDefining a male urinary tract infection represents a diagnostic challenge for GPs.A diagnosis based on clinical evidence alone is insufficient and complementary tests are required.A male urinary tract infection is an unusual disease in primary care and suggests a more serious underlying condition.
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Patients with impaired renal function are at an increased risk of dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhoea or fever (so-called sick days). Temporary medication adjustment during sick days is necessary and current initiatives and information materials for patients are available. However, the knowledge, experiences and information needs of patients and informal caregivers about sick day guidance are unknown. ⋯ Patients with impaired renal function and informal caregivers have little knowledge about and experience with dehydration and safe use of medication during sick days. General practitioners and pharmacists should involve the care network, including informal caregivers, when implementing sick day guidance.
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Despite growing acceptance of LGBT + individuals, an underlying stigma persists even in healthcare, resulting in substandard care and worse healthcare outcomes for LGBT + individuals. ⋯ The study underscores the significance of a sense of safety in the patient-doctor relationship and highlights the need for improved training and attitudes to provide inclusive and affirming healthcare for LGBT + individuals.