From Hidden Insights to Better Understanding: Physicians' Perspectives on Caregivers' Tacit Knowledge

Area of Science:

• Medical diagnosis
• Intellectual disability research
• Caregiver knowledge integration

Background:

• Diagnosing health issues in individuals with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) is challenging due to communication barriers.
• Caregivers possess tacit knowledge (TK) of non-verbal cues, which is often difficult to convey to physicians.
• Limited research explores physicians' perspectives on the value of caregiver TK.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore intellectual disability (ID) physicians' perceptions and valuation of caregivers' TK.
• To understand how caregiver TK is utilized in the medical care of individuals with PIMD.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 ID physicians.
• Thematic analysis with an interpretive approach was used to analyze interview data.
• Focus was on physicians' experiences with caregiver TK in PIMD medical care.

Main Results:

• ID physicians view caregiver TK as crucial for detecting subtle health signs and irregularities.
• Physicians recognize the diagnostic value of TK but find 'deep sensing' aspects harder to communicate.
• Collaborative relationships are essential for effectively utilizing caregiver TK.

Conclusions:

• Integrating caregiver TK with medical knowledge requires trust and partnership between caregivers and physicians.
• Overcoming communication barriers is key to improving medical care for individuals with PIMD.
• Co-production with caregivers enhances physical and mental well-being for people with PIMD.