Journal article
A user assessment of the potential for shared medical appointments in Australia
Australian Family Physician, Vol.43(11), pp.804-807
2014
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Abstract
<p><h3>Background</h3></p>
<p>In some countries, shared medical appointments (SMAs) have been shown to be more effective than single consultations for managing chronic diseases. Our study was designed as the first stage of a Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) funded project to assess potential patient and provider support for SMAs if they were to become available in Australia. <h3>Methods</h3></p>
<p>We conducted focus groups with healthcare providers and patients with diabetes in four large regional health centres in NSW. The data were analysed using rigorous qualitative processes. <h3>Results</h3></p>
<p>Healthcare provider participants appeared overwhelmingly in favour of SMAs, while patients were divided on the process. Where opposed, patients cited concerns about confidentiality and their satisfaction with the status quo. <h3>Discussion</h3></p>
<p>There appears to be a groundswell of interest in SMAs that warrants further investigation in the Australian healthcare system. Issues of reimbursement, homogeneity of groups and training need further consideration.</p>
Details
- Title
- A user assessment of the potential for shared medical appointments in Australia
- Creators
- John A Stevens - Southern Cross UniversityMary-Anne Cole - Grafton GP SuperclinicAndrew Binns - Goonellabah Medical CentreJohn Dixon - Clinical Obesity Research, Baker IDI Heart & Diabetes InstituteGarry Egger - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- Australian Family Physician, Vol.43(11), pp.804-807
- Identifiers
- 2879; 991012822189302368
- Academic Unit
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine; School of Health and Human Sciences
- Resource Type
- Journal article