Related Experiment Videos
Supporting GPs whose performance gives cause for concern: the North Trent experience.
H Joesbury1, N Mathers, P Lane
1Institute of General Practice and Primary Care, School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield S5 7AU, UK.
Family Practice
|March 27, 2001
Summary
The North Trent scheme successfully identified underperforming general practitioners (GPs), with most willing to engage in support. Modifications are needed as healthcare structures evolve.
Area of Science:
- Medical performance evaluation
- Primary care quality assurance
Background:
- The North Trent scheme was established in 1997 to address concerns regarding general practitioner (GP) performance.
- This paper details the scheme's structure, processes, and evaluates its outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the North Trent scheme for managing underperforming GPs.
- To evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of this performance management initiative.
Main Methods:
- Employed non-participant observation and semi-structured interviews with Health Authority (HA) representatives and Performance Review Quartet (PRQ) members.
- Conducted qualitative data analysis using a constant comparative method to identify key themes.
Main Results:
- The scheme identified 18 underperforming GPs; 15 received formal visits and support.
- 83% of identified GPs were willing to participate in supportive interventions.
- Performance indicators sometimes focused on cost-effectiveness over individual patient care quality.
Conclusions:
- The North Trent scheme effectively identified underperforming GPs, with high participation in support.
- The scheme requires adaptation for integration with emerging primary care structures.