Dutch General Practice Research Articles

The impact of tinnitus on Dutch general practices: A retrospective study using routine healthcare data.

Global prevalence of tinnitus (15%) is rising, indicating an increase in patients seeking help for this common symptom and potentially affecting the accessibility of care. The aim of this retrospective study is twofold; describing the morbidity trends and healthcare utilization among patients with recorded tinnitus at Dutch general practices (GP), and comparing overall healthcare utilization before and after tinnitus to similar patients without recorded tinnitus. Routine electronic health records data from general practices participating in Nivel Primary Care Database were used to describe trends in age- and sex-specific incidence, contact prevalence and healthcare utilization (contacts, prescriptions, and referrals to secondary care) for tinnitus from 2012 to 2021. Patients with tinnitus were matched (on sex, age, general practice) to patients without tinnitus (1:2). Healthcare use one year before and after a first GP contact for tinnitus (period) was analyzed with negative binominal (number of contacts) and logistic regression (prescriptions or referrals). Between 2012 and 2021, tinnitus incidence increased by 33% (3.3 to 4.4 per 1000 person-years). The largest increase was observed among 20-44-years (2.6 to 3.8 per 1000 person-years). One year after the first GP contact for tinnitus, patients with tinnitus utilized healthcare more frequently than patients without tinnitus. The referral rate increased the most (OR 1.99, 95%CI 1.83-2.16). The year before tinnitus at the GP, patients with tinnitus had more often GP consultations (IRR 1.16, 95%CI 1.12-1.19) and referrals (OR 1.09, 95%CI 1.01-1.18) than patients without tinnitus. Although GPs saw an increased number of patients with tinnitus, absolute numbers of patients remained low. Patients' healthcare use increased after the first tinnitus complaint at the GP, mainly for secondary care. Yet, they already used healthcare services more frequently than similar patients without tinnitus. Insight into possible explanations for these health disparities could contribute to targeted prevention.

Mental healthcare and pragmatic shared decision-making in general practice: An interview study.

Healthcare providers in general practice are expected to deliver mental healthcare to patients through shared decision-making (SDM). It is unclear if they perceive their SDM to be affected by challenging circumstances in mental healthcare, eg, how waiting time for therapy plays a role. To explore how healthcare providers and patients in general practice engage in SDM, given the challenging circumstances in mental healthcare. A qualitative interview study in seven Dutch general practices. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with general practitioners (GPs; N=9), practice nurses mental health (PNMHs; N=8) and patients that sought mental healthcare (N=18). The interviews were deductively and inductively thematically analyzed. The participants mainly reported on SDM regarding treatment in secondary mental healthcare. The PNMHs explained they lack an overview of available treatments and waiting times in facilities. The PNMHs therefore instruct patient to also search for options themselves. Most patients found this approach burdensome, especially those new to mental healthcare. These patients were said to often express no strong treatment preferences and rely on advice by their healthcare providers. The GPs and PNMHs explained that in such cases, they often adopt a pragmatic approach and for example refer indecisive patients to facilities with little waiting time. The healthcare providers and patients in general practice experience they adapt their approach to SDM in reaction to the circumstances in mental healthcare. Further exploration of how SDM is implemented and shaped by challenging circumstances across different healthcare settings is needed.

Gout diagnoses uncertain when made by general practitioners without serum uric acid testing: an observational study.

General practitioners (GPs) diagnose the majority of all gout patients. They make their diagnosis clinically. Serum uric acid (SUA) level >0.35mmol/l is largely determinative for the clinical diagnosis of gout. We aimed to assess to what extent GPs test SUA when making a first gout diagnosis, and to consider consequences regarding diagnostic certainty of not testing it. We calculated proportions of patients from 87 Dutch general practices (1-1-2013 to 1-1-2022) with a first gout diagnosis and a recorded SUA test, evaluated if SUA testing was punctually timed with respect to the diagnosis date, whether SUA levels were >0.35mmol/L, and whether diagnoses corresponded with diagnoses according to the 'Acute Gout Diagnosis Rule' (AGD-rule). In 43.0% of 7782 patients (mean age 64.4 years; 68.8% male) no SUA test result was recorded, with substantial variation among practices: median 41.9% (IQR 20.2%). 'Gout very likely' according to the AGD-rule was seen in all males and in 83.1% of females when a punctually timed SUA >0.35mmol/L was present. When such SUA level was lacking, 'Questionable or indeterminate gout diagnosis' was seen in all males and in 67.1% of females, and 'Arthritis diagnosis other than gout' in 32.9% of females. GPs diagnosed gout without testing SUA in ~40% of cases. This implies avoidable diagnostic uncertainty with impact for the clinical care of many patients as well as for studies that include primary care patients with gout. Key Points • Serum uric acid (SUA) level > 0.35mmol is determinative when diagnosing gout: however, it is unknown how often SUA testing is applied as such. • More than 40% of patients with a first gout diagnosis according to general practitioners (GPs) had no SUA test result registered in their medical record. • Gout diagnosing by GPs without SUA testing appeared to lead to avoidable diagnostic uncertainty, as diagnoses are often questionable or sometimes even wrong. • Researchers investigating gout need to take into account diagnostic uncertainty if they include gout patients who are diagnosed in primary care in their studies without SUA information.

Overcoming non-usage of e-mental health: A qualitative study in a Dutch general practice

Abstract Background Worldwide percentages of people with mental health problems are substantial and increased during the COVID pandemic (to about 25 % in the general population). E-mental health has potential to help with waiting lists, rising health care costs and work pressure. To reach the desired effects, participants need to use the technology as intended. Non-usage though is a common problem. Research question is: what elements obstruct the intention to use e-mental Health interventions, plus what are barriers to bridging the intention-behaviour gap? Methods In a qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted (interview guide). We recruited patients who were invited for an e-mental health intervention in a Dutch general practice but did not start the intervention. Data saturation occurred with 11 patients. Open, axial and selective coding was done on the transcribed interviews using the software ATLAS.ti. Results Five main themes were associated with non-use: 1) ‘Expectations about the eHealth in general’ were neutral to positive. 2) ‘thresholds to start e-mental health’ were: negative expectations about the content, lacking mental capacity due to mental problems, missing personal contact, the therapy with the mental health professional in general did not fit their needs or aversion towards more screen time. 3) ‘lack of planning’. 4) lacking encouragement from mental health professional 5) ‘Expectations from therapy in general’. (a.o. face-to-face contact and tailoring) Conclusions Embedding the e-mental health more into regular therapy has potential to overcome non-usage. The mental health care professional has social influence to increase usage, by a clear and convincing introduction plus joint review of the exercises during consultations. This study needs to be repeated in other clinical settings. Future research should also include age (computer use) and disease prognosis to define when e-mental health is a suitable solution for patients. Key messages • E-mental health interventions have potential to help with waiting lists, rising health care costs and workload, but non usage is a problem. • Embedding the e-mental health more into regular therapy has potential to overcome non-usage.

The potential of non-clinical guidance alongside e-mental Health to overcome non adherence

Abstract Background Mental health problems account worldwide for over an eighth of the global burden of disease and waiting lists nowadays are commonplace. E-Health has potential to reduce mental illness, whilst waiting for therapy or as a stand alone. A big problem with implementation of E-health in clinical practice is non adherence. Non-clinical guidance could make a difference as compared to the non guidance modus. Our research question is: what factors contribute to the potential of non-clinical guidance in overcoming non adherence for e-mental Health for patients with depressive, anxiety and stress symptoms? Methods We did a qualitative study in a Dutch general practice. The treatment consisted of several modules accompanied by non-clinical guidance by a healthcare assistant. Out of 190 invited patients, 31 patients participated. Eight weeks after being invited, 11 semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation. Thematic analysis was used with open, axial and selective coding. Results Three major themes emerged: 1) The patients were satisfied with the non-clinical guidance in almost all aspects: Negative comments arose from an urge for more contact or tailoring. 2) The form of the guidance (e.g. non-clinical; used interface) was subordinate to the amount and tailoring of it. 3) Adherence could further be improved through a more personal introduction, explaining the benefits of certain exercises and more time management. Conclusions The potential of non-clinical guidance in overcoming non adherence for e-mental Health can be improved by further tailoring and increasing the interactivity when needed. Further research is also needed, after the suggested improvements, whether the intervention is effective, compared to a therapist guided and a non guided version. This study needs to be repeated in other clinical settings. Key messages • Non-clinical guidance, alongside e-mental health has potential to help with non adherence, thereby decreasing the burden of waiting lists. • Non-clinical guidance was positively received by patients who received e-mental health, although further tailoring could make online treatment even a larger success.

The evaluation of an eHealth tool to prevent and alleviate migraine complaints in adults

Abstract Background Migraines attacks cause great suffering in individual patients. There is great unfulfilled potential to increase patients’ knowledge about various personal triggers and subsequent treatments. The objective of this study is to pilot test an e-Health tool that aims to increase migraine patients’ knowledge. It takes into account personal preferences and contributes to informed decision-making in choosing the appropriate method. Considering the shortage of primary care physicians and other health care providers, such an e-Health tool could be of great value. Methods lessmigraine.nl consists of a website with information plus an electronic decision aid. It was evaluated on its content, development process and effectiveness, and its contribution to the patients’ empowerment process. A first round of usability testing was done using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis with 12 patients from a Dutch General Practice until data saturation. After minor improvements to the e-tool, in a first implementation step subsequently 85 patients used the e-tool. Results Patients’ expectations were exceeded in terms of the content of the e-Health tool, as all patients discovered new potential migraine triggers. Most patients found the tool effective in the sense that it provided enough information to decide on an appropriate treatment. The implementation was successful in the sense that all 85 participants completed the e-tool. Most important triggers were stress, sleeping problems, changes in weather and flickering or bright light. Conclusions The majority of the migraine patients were satisfied with the e-Health tool. It enlarged their knowledge of prevention and treatment options and therefore empowered them in their decision-making process and communication with their GP. Other aspects of implementation need to be studied. This study needs to be repeated in other clinical settings. Key messages • Migraines cause great suffering in individual patients: Considering the shortage of primary care physicians and other health care providers, an e-Health tool could be of great value. • The e-Health tool increases patients’ knowledge about migraine, including personal triggers and subsequent treatments.

A methodology to map chains of general practices in the Netherlands

Abstract Background Commercial entities are increasingly interested in acquiring Dutch general practices (GPs). They see profitable opportunities in upscaling by forming chains. Chain organizations integrate business processes of GPs within one organizational unit. The governance structure of these chains can be complex, leading to opacity and difficulties to see conflicts of interest and market power. To investigate how this development may have an impact on quality and accessibility of care, it is first needed to establish the ways in which these chains are formed. By mapping the chain structure in a data-driven way, impact monitoring becomes possible. For the Netherlands we investigated how chain structures of GPs can be empirically identified. Methods Background data of approximately 4,800 Dutch GPs from the Nivel Healthcare Professional Registries was linked with data from the Chamber of Commerce’s Trade Register. This enabled the determination of the legal form, business location, ownership, and director identification for all GPs. By this data-driven manner, the variation in organizational structures of all Dutch GPs was mapped and analyzed. Results Four different chain variants of Dutch GP chains were identified based on three types of relations between the chain organization and their GPs: ownership, location and the composition of the board of directors. Based on ownership, two ‘top-down’ chain variants were identified. Two ‘bottom-up’ chain variants were found based on location and board composition: (1) a chain organization acquires a seat on the board of the GP, and (2) the GP and the chain organization share the same business address. Combining these variants provides a new typology of GP chains in the Netherlands. Conclusions Our methodology enables to empirically map chain formation in primary care. By developing a new typology in a systematic way, a foundation is created to monitor organizational developments and their impact on quality and accessibility of care. Key messages • A typology of Dutch GP chains was developed based on three relations: the ownership, composition of the board and the establishment location of the chain organization and its practices. • Our methodology was put into practice to map different chain structures of GPs in the Netherlands, but it is not limited to primary care and can also be applied in other sectors and countries.

Breast implant illness in women with implant-based reconstruction after breast cancer

Abstract Background This study investigated the association between silicone breast implants and health symptoms (Breast Implant Illness (BII)) in women with implant-based breast reconstruction after breast cancer. While there is increasing evidence of an association with BII in cosmetic breast augmentation cases, for women with implant-based breast reconstruction this is unknown. Methods Retrospective cohort study of 254 women who underwent implant-based reconstruction after breast cancer and a control group of 487 women who underwent breast-conserving therapy or simple mastectomy. We linked Dutch Breast Implant Registry data (2015-2019) and general practice electronic health records data (2014-2022) to study the occurrence of thirteen BII-related health symptoms in general practice and the number of consultations for these symptoms one year before to three years after breast surgery. Results Over the three years following implantation, no significant differences in symptom occurrence were observed compared to both the year before implantation and the control group. Women with breast implants did not have more consultations compared to the control group during follow-up. However, there was an increased likelihood of multiple consultations in the first and second years post-implantation compared to before implantation (≥3 consultations first year OR = 2.10, p = 0.005; second year OR = 1.70, p = 0.048; ≥5 consultations first year OR = 2.57, p = 0.02). Conclusions This study found no evidence for BII in women with implant-based reconstruction after breast cancer. Despite certain limitations in examining BII in this specific patient group, these findings add valuable information to the decision-making process of breast cancer patients considering reconstructive options. Key messages • This is the first study on BII that focused solely on women with breast implants for reconstruction after breast cancer. • No evidence of BII was found in this patient group.

Patient and healthcare provider perspectives on a digital first general practice: mixed-method study

Abstract Background General practitioners (GPs) are facing an increased workload as a result of an aging population and a growing prevalence of chronic diseases. Utilizing eHealth may help to enhance healthcare accessibility and reduce costs. A digital platform was developed that integrates eHealth into the organizational aspects of general practices. This study aims to provide insight into the experiences of patients and healthcare professionals with this new, digital way of working. Methods A mixed-method study was conducted in three Dutch general practices working with the digital platform. The digital platform focuses on digital communication and remote healthcare delivery in primary care. Primary outcomes included acceptability, the implementation process, suggestions for improvement, and facilitators and barriers for future implementation. Patient perspectives were identified through online questionnaires and focus groups, and healthcare professionals’ experiences were explored through in-depth interviews. Results Five focus groups and ten in-depth interviews were held. The questionnaires were completed by 616 patients. Patient acceptability of the care concept was high (M = 3.9, SD = 1.0; on a scale from 1-5) and they were satisfied with received care (M = 30.1, SD = 3.4; on a scale from 8-32). Regarding the perceived quality of consults, patients were positive about the longer duration of physical consults (i.e., 20 instead of 10 minutes). Some participants indicated a less personal doctor-patient relationship, because care was provided by various GPs. Conclusions Overall, patients and healthcare professionals were positive about the digital platform. The study gives insights into how to improve the care concept, e.g., how to enhance the doctor-patient relationship. Key messages • Digital first general practices that integrate eHealth into the practice’s organizational aspects of are considered acceptable by patients and healthcare professionals. • Digital first general practices can help to improve healthcare accessibility for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Patient and practice characteristics related to patient’s consent for health data exchange

Abstract Background Sharing patient health data electronically between healthcare providers can prevent medical errors and improve patient safety. In the Netherlands, exchange of health information is facilitated on a national level and is only allowed with patient consent. Consequently, it is important to know which factors are related to this patient consent. Methods Routine electronic health records data from up to 10% of Dutch general practices (sourced from the Nivel Primary Care Database) were utilized, covering the period from 2016 to 2020. We examined whether patient consent for health data exchange varied depending on patient and practice characteristics, which are expected to have a relationship with granting consent for health data exchange. Therefore, multilevel analysis was performed. Results The percentage of patients granting consent ranged between 40%-50% in the period 2016 to 2019, while this was 97% in 2020, due to the governmental corona opt-in regulation. Significant disparities were observed across several of the included patient and practice characteristics in relation to patient consent for all the years examined. In most years, patient consent provision varied by gender, age, socioeconomic position, location, and healthcare use. Practice characteristics showed notable differences in patient consent across information systems, patient volumes, and practice types over all years examined. Conclusions We observed significant variations in patient consent for health data exchange, both among the included patient (need) and practice characteristics. These differences may stem from unequal exposure to opportunities to grant consent, differences in risk of inadequate communication between healthcare providers, levels of health literacy, and practice resources. These factors should be taken into account by policymakers when further implementing and upscaling the national health data exchange system. Key messages • Variations in patient consent for health data exchange were observed among different patient groups and general practices. • Variations in patient consent for health data exchange may stem from unequal exposure to opportunities to grant consent, levels of health literacy, and practice resources, among other factors.

The incidence and prevalence of Dupuytren’s disease in primary care: results from a text mining approach on registration data

Background The focus of research and management of Dupuytren’s disease (DD) is shifting from relieving symptoms in the later stages of disease towards the prevention of contractures. Treatment services might likewise shift towards primary care. Studying characteristics of DD patients who seek medical care for the first time, may identify a symptomatic target group for early DD treatments. We present the first study that estimates the incidence and prevalence of DD in primary care by applying a text-mining algorithm to registration data. Methods This is a population-based cohort study using electronic health records from Dutch general practices involved in a regional research network. Descriptive statistics were used to describe sex, age, comorbidities and lifestyle factors, the latter two were identified via International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC) codes. Incidence rate was calculated as number of patients with a first contact for DD/1000 person years for the years 2017–2021, point prevalence as the percentage of patients with a contact for DD in 2021. DD contacts were identified using a text-mining algorithm. Results The incidence ranged between 1.41 and 1.72/1000 person years and the overall prevalence was 1.99%. Incidence and prevalence are higher among males and increase with age, peaking between 61 and 80 years. Conclusions Our results of prevalence and incidence of DD in primary care give an insight into the relevant population of patients with symptomatic DD that might be the future target group for potential disease controlling treatments.

Effectiveness of a health literacy intervention targeting both chronic kidney disease patients and health care professionals in primary and secondary care: a quasi-experimental study.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with limited health literacy are at risk for faster disease progression. To counteractthis problem, we developed 'Grip on your Kidneys' (GoYK), an intervention targeting patients and health care professionals. We assessed the effect on self-management, patient activation, clinical parameters, consultation quality, and the professionals' use of health literacy strategies. We further evaluated the process. A quasi-experimental study included 147 patients with CKD and 48 professionals from Dutch general practices and nephrology clinics. Patients and professionals in the intervention group (IG) received GoYK. Control patients received care-as-usual from the participating professionals. Data were collected with questionnaires and from patient records at baseline (T0), 4months (T1) and 9months (T2). No effects on self-management and patient activation were found. Conversely, at T2, the proportion of patients with hypertension decreased in the intervention group (odds ratio = 0.45, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) [0.20, 0.99]). In the intervention group, more lifestyle topics were discussed, at T1 (difference = 0.80, 95%CI [0.28, 1.31]) and T2 (difference = 0.69, 95%CI [0.14, 1.25]). Furthermore, several outcomes related to consultation quality improved. Professionals in the intervention group improved the use of health literacy strategies more, at T1 (difference = 0.64, 95%CI [0.33, 0.95]) and T2 (difference = 0.56, 95%CI [0.19, 0.93]). In general, patients and professionals considered GoYK to be useful. GoYK is promising, and offers a blueprint to optimize care for patients with limited health literacy. Researchers should develop and test interventions like GoYK, focusing on patients at risk for CKD, and with very low health literacy.

Care needs of patients with the post-COVID syndrome in Dutch general practice: an interview study among patients and general practitioners

BackgroundThe post-COVID syndrome (PCS) has a large impact on an individual’s daily life. The wide variety of symptoms in PCS patients and the fact that it is still relatively new makes it difficult for general practitioners (GPs) to recognize, diagnose and treat patients with PCS, leading to difficulties in assessing and fulfilling healthcare needs. It is largely unknown what the experiences of Dutch patients and GPs are with PCS and, therefore, we gained insight into the different aspects of living with PCS and the associated healthcare needs.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were performed with 13 self-reported PCS patients (varying in sex, age, education, and health literacy) and 6 GPs (varying in gender, age, and type of practice) between January-July 2022. Patients and GPs were most likely unrelated (not in the same practices). The data have been analysed using the Thematic Analysis method.ResultsExperiences appeared to vary between two types of PCS patients that emerged during the interviews: (1) individuals with good pre-existing health status (PEHS) who are severely affected by PCS and have difficulty recovering and (2) individuals with poorer PEHS whose health became even poorer after COVID-19 infection. The interviews with PCS patients and GPs revealed two main themes, in which the types of patients differed: (1) aspects of living with PCS; individuals with good PEHS mainly experience symptoms when overstimulated, while individuals with poorer PEHS generally feel exhausted continuously. (2) Healthcare experiences; GPs emphasized that individuals with good PEHS seem to benefit from support in distributing their energy by careful planning of daily activities, whereas individuals with poorer PEHS require support in activation. Patients and GPs emphasised the importance of taking patients seriously and acknowledging their symptoms. Finally, the patients interviewed indicated that some GPs doubted the existence of PCS, resulting in insufficient recognition.ConclusionAwareness of the differences in needs and experiences of the two types of PCS patients could contribute to more appropriate care. Acknowledgement of PCS by GPs as a real syndrome is important for patients and plays an important role in coping with or recovering from PCS. A multidisciplinary person-centred approach is important and can be coordinated by a GP.

Documentation of shared decision-making in diagnostic testing for dementia in Dutch general practice: A retrospective study in electronic patient records

ObjectiveTo explore (1) documentation of shared decision-making (SDM) in diagnostic testing for dementia in electronic patient records (EPR) in general practice and (2) study whether documentation of SDM is related to specific patient characteristics. MethodsIn this retrospective observational study, EPRs of 228 patients in three Dutch general practices were explored for the documentation of SDM elements using Elwyn’s model (team talk, option talk, decision talk). Patient characteristics (gender, age, comorbidities, chronic polypharmacy, the number of consultations on memory complaints) and decision outcome (wait-and-see, GP diagnostics, referral) were also extracted. ResultsIn EPRs of most patients (62.6 %), at least one SDM element was documented. Most often this concerned team talk (61.6 %). Considerably less often option talk (4.3 %) and decision talk (12.8 %) were documented. SDM elements were more frequently documented in patients with lower comorbidity scores and patients with a relatively high number of consultations. Decision talk was more frequently documented in referred patients. ConclusionPatients' and significant others’ needs, goals, and wishes on diagnostic testing for dementia are often documented in EPRs. Practice implicationsLimited documentation of option and decision talk stresses the need for future SDM interventions to facilitate timely dementia diagnosis.

Changes in analgesic prescriptions in Dutch general practice

Background Increases in opioid prescriptions have been described; however, recent trends and prescribing patterns of analgesics in Dutch general practice are largely unknown. Objective To investigate recent changes in the number of analgesic prescriptions, and the indications for prescribing strong opioids. Furthermore, we aim to identify risk factors for chronic opioid use in Dutch general practice. Design and setting A retrospective cohort study from 1 July 2013 to 31 June 2022, using a primary care practice based research network. Subjects Patients with ≥1 prescription for analgesics during the study period were included. Main outcome measure Changes in the number of prescriptions for paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids in Dutch general practice during the 9-year study period. Moreover, we analyzed indications for prescribing strong opioids by the general practitioner (GP). Results A total of 18,433 analgesic users were identified. Over time, prescriptions for paracetamol, NSAIDs and weak opioids decreased, while the number of strong opioid prescriptions increased. General practitioners prescribed more strong opioids for non-malignant pain, whereas prescriptions for malignant pain remained stable over time. Risk factors for chronic opioid use (≥90 days) included older age, lower educational level, smoking status and having a history of a musculoskeletal or psychological disorder, a malignancy or sexual, physical or psychological abuse. Conclusions Considering the increase in strong opioid prescriptions for benign conditions, GPs need to be vigilant for patients who are at risk for chronic use. Regular monitoring and awareness for psychosocial factors in treatment of chronic pain may be key in preventing harms associated with persistent opioid use.

Asthma and COPD management of patients with intellectual disabilities in general practice

People with intellectual disabilities experience overall poorer health and healthcare access than the general population. It is largely unknown how this applies to asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management by general practitioners (GPs). In a 10-year retrospective matched cohort study, n = 34,429, we examined year prevalence of asthma and COPD in adult patients with and without intellectual disabilities and potential differences in the delivery of asthma and COPD disease management activities in Dutch general practices (2010–2019). We collected information on patient characteristics, comorbidity, consultation patterns, use and outcomes of asthma/COPD control questionnaires, spirometry measurement, pulmonology referrals, and prescribed medication. Asthma patients with intellectual disabilities suffered more frequently from obesity (53.2% vs. 39.5% without intellectual disabilities), and both asthma and COPD patients with intellectual disabilities were more frequently current smokers (45.2% vs. 22.1% without intellectual disabilities, and 76.6% vs. 51.4% without intellectual disabilities, respectively). Also, a statistically significant larger number of asthma patients with intellectual disabilities were prescribed antibiotics (69.9% vs. 54.5%). COPD patients with intellectual disabilities, compared with matched controls without intellectual disabilities, received significantly more often either no COPD-related practice consultation at all (respectively 20.8% vs. 8.5%, p = 0.004) or a large number of practice consultations (>31 consultations, respectively 16.7% vs. 5.3%, p = 0.004). For asthma, there was no statistical difference between patients with or without intellectual disabilities regarding the number and type of consultations. The asthma year point prevalence in patients with intellectual disabilities was, from 2014 onward, significantly higher, and in 2019 was 8.7% vs. 6.0% for people without intellectual disabilities. For COPD, it was comparable in both groups. Both asthma and COPD patients with intellectual disabilities appeared considerably younger in age than patients without intellectual disabilities. Our findings warrant further research into the causes of the differences found for asthma and COPD and whether they also infer differences in the quality or the effectiveness of GP disease management, especially for young adults with intellectual disabilities.

Infection prevention and control in Dutch general practices before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and its implications for pandemic preparedness and seasonal respiratory epidemics: a qualitative study on lessons learned

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a re-evaluation of infection prevention and control (IPC) in general practices, highlighting the need for comprehensive IPC implementation. This study aimed to evaluate healthcare workers’ (HCWs) experiences and perspectives regarding IPC in general practices before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and its implications for post-pandemic IPC implementation.MethodsThis qualitative study involved semi-structured, in-depth interviews during two time periods: (1) prior to the COVID-19 pandemic (July 2019-February 2020), involving 14 general practitioners (GPs) and medical assistants; and (2) during the COVID-19 pandemic (July 2022-February 2023), including 22 GPs and medical assistants. Data analysis included thematic analysis that addressed multiple system levels.ResultsFindings indicated a shift towards comprehensive IPC implementation and organisation during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. Since the Omicron variant, some general practices maintained a broad set of IPC measures, while others released most measures. HCWs’ future expectations on post-pandemic IPC implementation varied: some anticipated reduced implementation due to the desire to return to the pre-pandemic standard, while others expected IPC to be structurally scaled up during seasonal respiratory epidemics. Main contextual challenges included patient cooperation, staff shortages (due to infection), shortages of IPC materials/equipment, and frequently changing and ambiguous guidelines. Key lessons learned were enhanced preparedness (e.g., personal protective equipment supply), and a new perspective on care organisation (e.g., digital care). Main recommendations reported by HCWs were to strengthen regional collaboration within primary care, and between primary care, public health, and secondary care.ConclusionHCWs’ experiences, perspectives and recommendations provide insights to enhance preparedness for future epidemics and pandemics, and sustain IPC in general practices. For IPC improvement strategies, adopting an integrated system-based approach that encompasses actions across multiple levels and engages multiple stakeholders is recommended.

Care needs of chronically ill patients with intellectual disabilities in Dutch general practice: patients’ and providers’ perspectives

BackgroundTo reduce the impact of chronic diseases (cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, and chronic lung disease (asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)), it is imperative that care is of high quality and suitable to patients’ needs. Patients with intellectual disabilities (ID) differ from the average patient population in general practice because of their limitations in adaptive behaviour and intellectual functioning, and concomitant difficulties recognising and reacting to disease symptoms, proactively searching health information, and independently managing diseases effectively. Because of these differences, information on their care needs is essential for suitable chronic disease management (CDM). Inadequate recognition of the care needs of this vulnerable population may hamper the harmonisation of evidence-based and person-centred care, compounded by issues such as stigma, misconceptions, and diagnostic overshadowing. This study therefore aimed to explore the needs of patients with ID from perspectives of both patients and of healthcare providers (HCPs) in the context of CDM in general practice.MethodsThis qualitative study recruited patients with ID for face-to-face individual interviews and HCPs for focus groups. With the Chronic Care Model as the underlying framework, semi-structured interviews and focus-group guides were defined to explore patients’ care needs and HCPs’ perspectives. All interviews and focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Using Atlas.ti software, data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsBetween June and September 2022, 14 patients with ID and cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, and/or asthma/COPD were interviewed; and 32 general practitioners and practice nurses participated in seven focus groups. We identified six care needs underpinning suitable CDM: trusting relationship between patient and HCP; clear expectations about the CDM process; support in disease management; directive decision-making; support in healthy lifestyle; accessible medical information.ConclusionsThis vulnerable patient population has complex care needs that must be acknowledged for suitable CDM. Although HCPs largely recognise these needs, organisational factors and lack of training or experience with patients with ID hamper HCPs’ ability to fully adjust care provision to these needs. Access to, and knowledge of, easy-language information on chronic diseases and communication guidelines could aid HCPs to facilitate patients in managing their diseases more adequately.

Multidomain Dementia Risk Reduction in Primary Care is Feasible: A Proof-of-concept study.

Dementia risk reduction is a public health priority, but interventions that can be easily implemented in routine care are scarce. To evaluate the feasibility of integrating dementia risk reduction in regular consultations in primary care and the added value of a dedicated smartphone app ('MyBraincoach'). 188 participants (40-60 years), with modifiable dementia risk factors were included from ten Dutch general practices in a cluster-randomized trial (NL9773, 06/10/2021). Practices were randomly allocated (1 : 1) to provide a risk-reduction consultation only or to additionally provide the app. During the consultation, participants learned about dementia risk reduction and how to improve their risk profile. The app group received daily microteaching-notifications about their personally relevant risk factors. Feasibility was evaluated after 3 months using questionnaires assessing knowledge on dementia risk reduction and health behavior change. The primary outcome was change in the validated "LIfestyle for BRAin health" (LIBRA) score. In-depth interviews were conducted with participants and primary care providers (PCPs). The interventions were positively perceived, with 72.0% finding the consultation informative and 69.2% considering the app useful. Drop-out was low (6.9%). LIBRA improved similarly in both groups, as did Mediterranean diet adherence and body mass index. Knowledge of dementia risk reduction increased, but more in the app group. Interviews provided insight in participants' and PCPs' needs and wishes. Integrating dementia risk reduction in primary care, supported by a smartphone app, is a viable approach towards dementia risk reduction. Larger trials are needed to establish (cost-)effectiveness.

How to use polarity thinkingTM to manage tensions between accountability and learner agency when using a multipurpose portfolio?

ABSTRACT Portfolios are often implemented to target multiple purposes, e.g. assessment, accountability and/or self-regulated learning. However, in educational practice, it appears to be difficult to combine different purposes in one portfolio, as interdependencies between the purposes can cause tensions. This paper explored directions to manage tensions that are inextricably linked to multipurpose portfolio use. We used a systems thinking methodology, that was based on the polarity thinkingTM framework. This framework provides a step-by-step approach to chart a polarity map® that can help to balance the tensions present in specific settings. We followed the steps of the framework to chart a polarity map for multipurpose portfolio use. Based on literature and our prior research, we selected one overarching polarity: accountability and learner agency. This polarity seems responsible for multiple tensions related to multipurpose portfolio use. We formulated values (potential benefits) and fears (tensions that can arise) of the two poles of this polarity. Then, we organised a session with stakeholders who work with the portfolio of the Dutch General Practice speciality programme. Together we formulated action steps and early warnings that can help to balance accountability and learner agency during multipurpose portfolio use. In addition to previous recommendations concerning portfolio use, we advocate that it is important to create a shared frame of reference between all involved with the multipurpose portfolio. During this process, the acknowledgement and discussion of tensions related to multipurpose portfolio use are vital.