GPs' perspectives on care models integrating medical and non-medical services in primary care-a representative survey in Germany.

Abstract

Background: Health-related social problems are common in primary care. Different care models integrating medical and non-medical services in primary care have been tested and established nationally and internationally, such as social prescribing, social work in primary care, health kiosks and integrated primary care centres. The aim of our study was to explore the perspective of general practitioners (GPs) working in Germany on these four care models regarding their meaningfulness and if they would like to use them. Secondary objective was to explore factors influencing this assessment.

Methods: We conducted a survey of a representative sample of GPs working in Germany. The questionnaire included questions on the assessment of the care models' meaningfulness and whether the GPs would like to use them. The analysis was carried out descriptively and using linear regression.

Results: One thousand four hundred thirty-nine GPs took part in the survey. Social prescribing and social work in primary care were rated as the most meaningful concepts. Over 65% of the GPs believed that using at least one of the care models would be beneficial. One in four GPs would even welcome the idea of integrating their practice into an integrated primary care center. Older age and male gender were associated with a more negative assessment of the care models.

Conclusions: German GPs consider integrating medical and non-medical services in primary care to be meaningful, yet they are somewhat skeptical about its practical implementation in daily practice. However, younger GPs in Germany are significantly more receptive to these models.

Trial registration: German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS-ID: DRKS00032585; Registration Date: September 1, 2023).