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Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0, Open Access
Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0, Open
Journal article
Where the joy comes from: a qualitative exploration of deep GP-patient relationships
BMC primary care, Vol.24, 268
13/12/2023
PMID: 38087212
Appears in Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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Abstract
Background
Relationship-based, whole person care is foundational to quality general practice. Previous research has identified several characteristics of deep General Practitioner (GP)-patient relationships and their association with improved patient concordance, satisfaction and perceived health outcomes. Psychological attachment theory has been used to understand therapeutic relationships, but has only been explored to a limited extent in the general practice context. Additionally, evolving changes in sociocultural and commercial practice contexts may threaten relationship-based care. In view of this, we aimed to explore the nature and experience of deep GP-patient relationships, as identified by patients, from GP and patient perspectives.
Methods
Semi-structured interview design. An initial survey assessed patients’ perceived depth of their relationship with their GP, using the Health Care Provider Attachment Figure Survey and Patient-Doctor Depth of Relationship Scale. Patients who reported a deep relationship, and their GPs, were purposively selected for individual interviews exploring their experience of these relationships. A post-interview survey assessed interviewees’ attachment styles, using the Modified and Brief Experiences in Close Relationships Scale. Patient interviewees also rated the patient-centredness of their GP’s clinic using the Person-Centred Primary Care Measure. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.
Results
Thirteen patients and five GPs were interviewed. Four themes characterised deep relationships: the ‘professional’; human connection; trust; and ‘above and beyond’. Patient, GP and practice team all contributed to their cultivation.
Conclusions
We present a revised conceptual framework of deep GP-patient relationships. Deep relationships come to the fore in times of patient trouble. Like attachment relationships, they provide a sense of safety, caring and support for patients experiencing vulnerability. They can stretch GP boundaries and capacity for self-care, but also provide joy and vocational satisfaction. Patients may not always desire or need deep relationships with their GP. However, findings highlight the importance of enabling and cultivating these for times of patient hardship, and challenges of doing so within current healthcare climates.
Details
- Title
- Where the joy comes from: a qualitative exploration of deep GP-patient relationships
- Creators
- Hayley Thomas - University of QueenslandJohanna Lynch - University of QueenslandEmily Burch - Southern Cross UniversityMegan Best - University of Notre Dame (Sydney, Australia)Lauren Ball - University of QueenslandElizabeth Sturgiss - Monash UniversityNancy Sturman - University of Queensland
- Publication Details
- BMC primary care, Vol.24, 268
- Publisher
- BioMed Central Ltd.
- Grant note
- FMCER2021-05 / RACGP Foundation
- Identifiers
- 991013154279202368
- Copyright
- © The Author(s) 2023. This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article