GP trainee responses to using SHERPA for multimorbidity consultations.

Area of Science:

• General Practice
• Medical Education
• Patient-Centred Care

Background:

• Current GP training models may miss issues in patients with multimorbidity.
• The SHERPA model offers a person-centred, biopsychosocial framework for these complex consultations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate general practitioner (GP) trainees' responses to the SHERPA model during vocational training.
• To assess the learning and application of the SHERPA model in a UK GP training setting.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research design involving 16 GP trainees.
• Data collection through teaching observations, feedback templates, practical applications, and interviews.
• Systematic analysis using the Framework approach.

Main Results:

• All trainees engaged with teaching; half successfully applied SHERPA, particularly with repeat attenders.
• Barriers included patient selection, time constraints, and integrating SHERPA into shared decision-making.
• The model was perceived as helpful for patients with whom trainees had an established relationship.

Conclusions:

• The SHERPA model shows promise for GP trainees consulting patients with multimorbidity.
• Enhanced training, including earlier introduction and reflective support, can improve confidence and application.
• Addressing barriers is key to maximizing the SHERPA model's utility in primary care settings.