Primary care physicians’ educational needs and learning preferences in end of life care: A focus group study in the UK

Lucy Ellen Selman*, Lisa Jane Brighton, Vicky Robinson, Rob George, Shaheen A. Khan, Rachel Burman, Jonathan Koffman

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle (Academic Journal)peer-review

29 Citations (Scopus)
404 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background: Primary care physicians (General Practitioners (GPs)) play a pivotal role in providing end of life care (EoLC). However, many lack confidence in this area, and the quality of EoLC by GPs can be problematic. Evidence regarding educational needs, learning preferences and the acceptability of evaluation methods is needed to inform the development and testing of EoLC education. This study therefore aimed to explore GPs’ EoLC educational needs and preferences for learning and evaluation.

Methods: A qualitative focus group study was conducted with qualified GPs and GP trainees in the UK. Audio recordings were transcribed and analysed thematically. Expert review of the coding frame and dual coding of transcripts maximised rigour.

Results: 28 GPs (10 fully qualified, 18 trainees) participated in five focus groups. Four major themes emerged: (1) why education is needed, (2) perceived educational needs, (3) learning preferences, and (4) evaluation preferences. EoLC was perceived as emotionally and clinically challenging. Educational needs included: identifying patients for palliative care; responsibilities and teamwork; out-of-hours care; having difficult conversations; symptom management; non-malignant conditions; and paediatric palliative care. Participants preferred learning through experience, working alongside specialist palliative care staff, and discussion of real cases, to didactic methods and e-learning. 360 degree appraisals and behavioural assessment using videoing or simulated interactions were considered problematic. Self-assessment questionnaires and patient and family outcome measures were acceptable, if used and interpreted correctly.

Conclusions: GPs require education and support in EoLC, particularly the management of complex clinical care and counselling. GPs value mentoring, peer-support, and experiential learning alongside EoLC specialists over formal training.
Original languageEnglish
Article number17
Number of pages9
JournalBMC Palliative Care
Volume16
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 9 Mar 2017

Research Groups and Themes

  • Palliative and End of Life Care

Keywords

  • Education
  • End of Life Care
  • General Practice
  • Palliative Care
  • Primary Health Care
  • Qualitative Research

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