ID-5184 Wonca Abstracts supplement A-K 13-10-23 - Flipbook - Page 89
WONCA 2023 Supplement 1: WONCA 2023 abstracts (A–K)
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Caring for people who regularly use methamphetamine:
What GPs need to do it better
Dr Antony Bolton1, Catherine Spencer1, Nadine Ezard1,2, Professor Mark Harris1
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UNSW, 2St Vincent’s Hospital
Introduction
People who regularly use methamphetamine (PWRUM) are experiencing harms to physical and
psychological health [1–3]. It is surprising, therefore, to learn that in Australia they visit general
practitioners (GPs) more frequently than the general population [4]. There is little in the literature to help
us understand GPs’ opinions on caring for PWRUM and explain why these frequent attendances are
not translating into better outcomes.
Methods
Semistructured interviews were conducted with 14 GPs practicing in Greater Sydney about their
experiences of providing general practice-based care for PWRUM. Demographic and scope of
practice data were collected to ensure a broad sample. Transcripts were analysed thematically using
an established framework. Levesque (2013) conceptualises access to care as depending on the
ability of consumers to navigate a series of provider domains [5] and is therefore patient-focused. We
recruited to thematic saturation.
Key findings
GPs described a range of barriers and enablers across the domains described by Levesque (2013).
This presentation will focus on the practical factors identified. Barriers included appointment systems,
billing practices and lack of GP education. Enablers included routine screening, advertising and
relevant health resources, good links with specialist services. Other factors will be briefly described.
Implications for practice
The barriers and enablers identified by our GP participants described via a patient-focused access
framework could be used to inform improved educational content for GPs in training, established GPs
and practice staff; better funding models; and new models of care that will better meet the needs of
this group – relating to both methamphetamine use and the effects this can have on health in general.
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