A qualitative study : the experience of general practitioners with elderly patients with osteoarthritis

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition commonly effecting elderly patients in the community. There is a "demographic transition" leading to an ageing population. Aim: To perform a qualitative study about how general practitioners (GPs) look at osteoarthritis, its effects on patients' lives as regards the biopsychosocial model. The aim is to analyse the GPs' perspectives about the local available sources and any possible improvements. Methods: Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used as it allows discovering the details of each individual GP. Two GPs who have been practising for more than 5 years within the community where selected through the Malta Association for Family Doctors. Snow balling was used to recruit the other two. Semi-structured interviews were then conducted transcribed and analysed. Results: There was a common feeling that dealing with such a common disease is challenging within the community and there is a need for a specialised osteoarthritis clinic in the community to cater for all these patients' needs via a multidisciplinary team. The need for a holistic approach was agreed amongst all the participants. Conclusion: Osteoarthritis is a common, challenging condition which is treated by GPs; but being multi-faceted input from other professionals is required.