To make a difference--how GPs conceive consultation outcomes. A phenomenographic study.

Area of Science:

• General Practice
• Qualitative Research
• Healthcare Outcomes

Background:

• Current measurement of General Practitioners' (GPs') consultation outcomes primarily relies on disease-specific metrics and patient-reported questionnaires.
• Existing measures assess health status, patient satisfaction, enablement, and quality of care.
• There is a need to explore GPs' own understanding of what constitutes a successful consultation outcome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and understand General Practitioners' (GPs') conceptions of consultation outcomes.
• To explore the nuances of how GPs perceive the results of their patient interactions.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing phenomenography.
• Data were collected through interviews with 17 General Practitioners (GPs).
• Interviews focused on GPs' reflections on outcomes from recently conducted consultations, conducted both in groups and individually.

Main Results:

• General Practitioners (GPs) conceptualized consultation outcomes in four distinct categories:
• 1. Patient outcomes: Generally aligned with established outcome studies.
• 2. GPs' self-evaluation: Based on internalized professional norms and perceived collegial consensus.
• 3. Relationship building: Viewed as an outcome in itself and for future interactions.
• 4. Change of surgery routines: Considered an outcome preparing for subsequent consultations.

Conclusions:

• GPs' perceptions of patient outcomes often align with those documented in existing research.
• Relationship building and modifications to practice routines are seen by GPs as crucial for future consultations.
• GPs' self-assessments are influenced by internalized professional standards and peer consensus.
• Recognizing these varied aspects of consultation outcomes can inform and inspire professional development initiatives for GPs.