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Health problems in family practice. An Icelandic multicentre study
T Njalsson1, J A Sigurdsson, R G McAuley
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Iceland Solvangur Health Centre, Hafnarfjordur, Iceland.
Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care
|March 1, 1996
Summary
This study analyzed 176,384 health problems in Iceland, finding musculoskeletal and respiratory disorders most common. This data aids family practice and public health planning.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Family Practice Research
Background:
- Family practice data is crucial for understanding population health burdens.
- Multicentre analysis provides a robust epidemiological overview.
- Standardized data collection enhances the reliability of health problem assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish epidemiological data on health problems in Icelandic family practice.
- To analyze the prevalence and frequency of various health conditions.
- To inform health care planning and clinical epidemiology.
Main Methods:
- Prospective practice audit conducted across thirteen Icelandic health centers.
- Computerized contact data collected from January 1 to December 31, 1988.
- Analysis of 176,384 health problems within a defined population of 31,248.
Main Results:
- Musculoskeletal (9.3%) and respiratory (9.4%) disorders were the most prevalent health problems.
- Hypertension, upper respiratory tract infections, and non-articular rheumatism were the most common single issues.
- Mental disorders led to the most frequent patient contacts (4.0 per individual annually).
Conclusions:
- Computerized, standardized medical records offer valuable insights into family practice health burdens.
- Well-defined populations and geographic areas are essential for accurate epidemiological studies.
- The findings are significant for health care educators and planners.