RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Family physicians and dementia in Canada
JF Canadian Family Physician
JO Can Fam Physician
FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada
SP 508
OP 509.e7
VO 55
IS 5
A1 Nicholas J.G. Pimlott
A1 Malini Persaud
A1 Neil Drummond
A1 Carole A. Cohen
A1 James L. Silvius
A1 Karen Seigel
A1 Gary R. Hollingworth
A1 William B. Dalziel
YR 2009
UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/55/5/508.abstract
AB OBJECTIVE To explore the challenges Canadian family physicians face in providing dementia care. DESIGN Qualitative study using focus groups. SETTING Academic family practice clinics in Calgary, Alta, Ottawa, Ont, and Toronto, Ont. PARTICIPANTS Eighteen family physicians. METHODS We conducted 4 qualitative focus groups of 4 to 6 family physicians whose practices we had audited in a previous study. Focus group transcripts were analyzed using the principles of thematic analysis. MAIN FINDINGS Five major themes related to the provision of dementia care by family physicians emerged: 1) diagnostic uncertainty; 2) the complexity of dementia; 3) time as a paradox in the provision of dementia care; 4) the importance of patients’ families; 5) and familiarity with patients. Participants expressed uncertainty about diagnosing dementia and a strong need for expert verification of diagnoses owing to the complexity of dementia. Time, patients’ family members, and familiarity with patients were seen as both barriers and enablers in the provision of dementia care. CONCLUSION Family physicians face many challenges in providing dementia care. The results of this study and the views of family physicians should be considered in the development and dissemination of future dementia guidelines, as well as by specialist colleagues, policy makers, and those involved in developing continuing physician education about dementia.