Risk of opioid misuse in people with cancer and pain and related clinical considerations: a qualitative study of the perspectives of Australian general practitioners.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To explore the perspectives of general practitioners (GPs) concerning the risk of opioid misuse in people with cancer and pain and related clinical considerations.

Design

A qualitative approach using semistructured telephone interviews. Analysis used an integrative approach.

Setting

Primary care.

Participants

Australian GPs with experience of prescribing opioids for people with cancer and pain.

Results

Twenty-two GPs participated, and three themes emerged. Theme 1 (Misuse is not the main problem) contextualised misuse as a relatively minor concern compared with pain control and toxicity, and highlighted underlying systemic factors, including limitations in continuity of care and doctor expertise. Theme 2 ('A different mindset' for can

SUBMITTER: Luckett T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7044941 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature