The cost of saying no: general practitioners' gatekeeping role in sickness absence certification.

ABSTRACT:

Background

General practitioners (GPs) have an important gatekeeping role in the Norwegian sickness insurance system. This role includes limiting access to paid sick leave when this is not justified according to sick leave criteria. 85% of GPs in Norway operate within a fee-for-service system that incentivises short consultations and high service provision. In this qualitative study, we explore how GPs practise the gatekeeping role in sickness absence certification.

Methods

Qualitative data was collected through six focus group interviews with 33 GPs, working in practices with a minimum of four practising GPs, in different geographical regions across Norway, including both urban and rural areas. Data was analysed using Braune and Clarke's thematic analysis approach.

Resul

SUBMITTER: Hoff EH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10860288 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature