Intellectual disability and mental health problems: a qualitative study of general practitioners' views.
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ABSTRACT: Objectives
To investigate general practitioners' (GPs) experiences in managing patients with intellectual disabilities (ID) and mental and behavioural problems (MBP).Design
Qualitative study using in-depth interviews.Setting
General practice in Hedmark county, Norway.Participants
10 GPs were qualitatively interviewed about their professional experience regarding patients with ID and MBP. Data were analysed by all authors using systematic text condensation.Results
The participants' knowledge was primarily experience-based and collaboration with specialists seemed to be individual rather than systemic. The GPs provided divergent attitudes to referral, treatment, collaboration, regular health checks and home visits.Conclusions
GPs are in a position to provide evidence-based and individual treatment for both psychological and somatic problems among patients with ID. However, they do not appear to be making use of evidence-based treatment decisions. The GPs feel that they are left alone in decision-making, and find it difficult to find trustworthy collaborative partners. The findings in this study provide useful information for further research in the field.
SUBMITTER: Fredheim T
PROVIDER: S-EPMC3612780 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Mar
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Publications
Intellectual disability and mental health problems: a qualitative study of general practitioners' views.
Fredheim Terje T Haavet Ole Rikard OR Danbolt Lars Johan LJ Kjønsberg Kari K Lien Lars L
BMJ open 20130306 3
<h4>Objectives</h4>To investigate general practitioners' (GPs) experiences in managing patients with intellectual disabilities (ID) and mental and behavioural problems (MBP).<h4>Design</h4>Qualitative study using in-depth interviews.<h4>Setting</h4>General practice in Hedmark county, Norway.<h4>Participants</h4>10 GPs were qualitatively interviewed about their professional experience regarding patients with ID and MBP. Data were analysed by all authors using systematic text condensation.<h4>Resu ...[more]
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