Patient involvement in the encounter between general practice and patients with a chronic disease. Results of a scoping review focusing on type 2 diabetes and obstructive pulmonary disease.

Abstract

Introduction: Research has shown improved health outcomes when patients are involved in managing their health conditions and when their individual needs are considered.

Objectives: This scoping review aimed to map the existing research regarding chronic disease patients' involvement in their encounters with general practice, with a specific focus on patients with Type 2 diabetes (TD2) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and from the perspectives of both general practitioners and patients.

Methods: Studies of any design, date, and language were included. A systematic search was conducted using the following databases: Medline, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Scopus, and EMBASE from August until October 2020 and renewed September 2021. Data were systematically charted by the following study characteristics: bibliographic aims; study aims; setting; area of interest; results; conclusion.

Results: Eighteen studies were included; they conducted qualitative methods, surveys or mixed methods. From the patients' perspectives, the importance of being more involved in treatment discussions during consultations as well as a friendly environment, was underscored. A good relationship and relational continuity make it easier for patients to be more involved in treatment decisions. From the general practitioner (GP) perspectives, they mentioned their high workload, long-standing relationships, knowledge about the patients and prepared patients as factors influencing their ability to involve patients in treatment discussions.

Conclusion: A good GP-patient relationship was considered an important aspect to providing and facilitating for involvement of patients with COPD or TD2. Scoping review registration: https://osf.io/ynqt2.