Medical Residents' Experiences With Medically Unexplained Illness and Medically Unexplained Symptoms

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Psychosomatic Medicine
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Medically unexplained illnesses/symptoms (MUI/S) lead to higher healthcare utilization and costs.
• Primary care providers frequently encounter patients with MUI/S.
• Limited understanding exists on enhancing provider confidence and reducing frustration with MUI/S patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore medical residents' experiences caring for patients with MUI/S.
• To identify personal and professional factors influencing residents' clinical approaches to MUI/S.
• To inform strategies for improving resident confidence and reducing frustration.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative phenomenology study design.
• In-depth exploration of medical residents' lived experiences.
• Analysis of personal and professional factors impacting clinical practice.

Main Results:

• Residents reported significant lack of confidence in managing MUI/S.
• Frustration was a common emotional response during encounters with MUI/S patients.
• Personal and professional factors influenced residents' approaches to care.

Conclusions:

• Addressing resident confidence and frustration is crucial for effective MUI/S care.
• Further research is needed to develop supportive interventions for clinicians.
• Improving the care of patients with MUI/S requires understanding provider experiences.