How can primary care enhance end-of-life care for liver disease? Qualitative study of general practitioners' perceptions and experiences.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Liver disease is the third most common cause of premature death in the UK. The symptoms of terminal liver disease are often difficult to treat, but very few patients see a palliative care specialist and a high proportion die in hospital. Primary care has been identified as a setting where knowledge and awareness of liver disease is poor. Little is known about general practitioners' (GPs) perceptions of their role in managing end-stage liver disease.

Objective

To explore GPs' experiences and perceptions of how primary care can enhance end-of-life care for patients with liver disease.

Design

Qualitative interview study, thematic analysis.

Participants

Purposive sample of 25 GPs from five regions of England.

Results

GPs expressed a desire to be m

SUBMITTER: Standing H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5588936 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature