Which patients talk about stressful life events and social problems to the general practitioner?

Abstract

In view of the high prevalence of positive attitude towards confiding the efforts by GPs should focus on the reduction of disclosure thresholds. This would require increased abilities to elicit psychosocial information and show emphatic understanding of patients' life difficulties. By contrast there is a need to promote a positive attitude in confiding that concerns only a minority of primary-care patients. More data are needed for shaping more specific strategies for these patients.

Patient Preferences for Discussing Childhood Trauma in Primary Care

“…24 However, clinicians may be more apt to inquire about trauma exposure and symptoms if they know that screening for trauma is acceptable and appreciated by their patients. [25][26][27] A growing body of research has been exploring patient preferences for making health care decisions.…”

“…21,22 Although recognizing traumatic stress symptoms has been proposed as an important first step toward addressing the needs of higher-risk and complex patients, 23 patients who somaticize are often unaware of links between past events and current symptoms 24 and may be…”

Case identification of depression in patients with chronic physical health problems: a diagnostic accuracy meta-analysis of 113 studies

“…13,14 There is convincing evidence that many cases of depression go unrecognised in the general population and in primary care. [15][16][17] Reasons for under-recognition include a low rate of mood problems as the presenting complaint, infrequent specific enquiry from clinicians, and uncertainty about diagnostic criteria. 18,19 Identifying depression in people with chronic physical health problems may be even more complex, and primary care physicians may be less likely to diagnose depression in this population.…”

Comorbidity and medication load in adult asthmatics

“…The risk of potential drug interactions is also lower when the patient is treated by a single physician [21]. GPs, having established and trustful relationships with their patients, can potentially take account of psychosocial factors that may have an influence on the symptoms [22]. Specialists have an important role in supporting the primary care sector in the form of consultations and the planning of guidelines for treatment and in taking care of the most severe cases.…”