Aust Fam Physician. 2001 Jun;30(6):616-9.

The patient perspective survey. Can consultations for complex health problems be enhanced?.

Australian family physician

E Laerum, P Schattner, L McCall, S Steine, J Murtagh

PMID: 11458595

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Patients with complex health problems pose particular difficulties due to the interaction between psychosocial factors and physical disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the usefulness of a paper based instrument (the Patient Perspective Survey, or PPS) to enhance general practitioner-patient communication and patients' self reported coping skills.

METHODS: A previously validated questionnaire was modified and distributed to a self selected group of 21 GPs. They recruited 77 patients with complex health problems and asked them to complete a PPS questionnaire. The patients then returned for an extended consultation to discuss the results of the questionnaire with the GP. Patients and GPs subsequently completed PPS evaluation forms.

RESULTS: The PPS was useful for patients with chronic conditions with mixed physical and psychological components. It appeared to enhance the GP-patient relationship and gave patients a better understanding of their coping skills.

DISCUSSION: Patients with complex health problems can use paper based questionnaires to improve the quality of communication between themselves and their GPs.

MeSH terms

• Adaptation, Psychological*
• Humans
• Physician-Patient Relations*
• Pilot Projects
• Referral and Consultation*

Publication Types

• Journal Article
• Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't