Questionnaire Survey on the Challenges and Questions Faced by Primary Care Physicians When Providing Care to Patients...

Collaboration between hematologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial for managing hematologic diseases, particularly malignancies. However, the specific challenges PCPs face in such coordination remain underexplored in Japan. The aim of this study was to investigate the difficulties and questions encountered by PCPs when providing care to patients with hematologic diseases and to identify potential barriers to effective collaboration with hematologists.

We conducted a web-based, self-administered questionnaire survey among 4,207 physicians listed on the Japan Primary Care Association mailing list. Respondents with at least three years of clinical experience were eligible. The questionnaire covered demographics, involvement in home care, and challenges in referral and follow-up related to hematologic diseases. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; free-text responses were thematically analyzed using NVivo.

A total of 90 PCPs responded. The most frequently referred conditions were malignant lymphoma, bone marrow failure, and myeloproliferative neoplasms. Common follow-up challenges included limited access to hematologists, role ambiguity, and inadequate communication. Thematic analysis revealed key difficulties: a shortage of specialists, complex treatment decisions for elderly patients, and psychological barriers in initiating consultations with hematologists.

PCPs in Japan face both structural and psychological barriers when managing hematologic diseases, particularly in collaboration with hematologists. Enhancing bidirectional communication and addressing these barriers may improve continuity and quality of care.