Towards improving primary care: Considerations on a Sicilian population-based survey

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Primary Care Medicine
• Nursing Studies

Background:

• Healthcare reforms have introduced new primary care models.
• These models address patient needs but face challenges in maintaining continuous patient-therapist relationships.
• Relational continuity is crucial for effective healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate patient perceptions of primary care services.
• To identify preferred healthcare providers within territorial care.
• To explore the role of nurses in supporting general practitioners (GPs).

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted in Messina, Sicily, on May 12, 2018.
• Participants completed a 12-question, self-reported Italian questionnaire.
• The questionnaire assessed social status, chronic conditions, healthcare preferences, and service evaluations.

Main Results:

• The general practitioner (GP) emerged as the most appreciated healthcare provider.
• Nurses were identified as the second most valued healthcare professionals.
• Patient satisfaction varied based on the evaluation of territorial services.

Conclusions:

• Nurses are well-positioned to enhance GP patient management in primary care.
• Integrating nurses more effectively can improve relational continuity and patient care.
• This study highlights the collaborative potential between GPs and nurses in community health settings.