The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic in general practices compared to pre-pandemic times: Longitudinal questionnaire survey among general practitioners and medical practice assistants in Germany on how the pandemic shaped everyday care

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, general practice teams faced numerous challenges. The aim of the VeCo practice project was to explore changes in the provision and utilisation of health care services in general practices as well as professional challenges and needs during and after the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of general practitioners (GPs) and medical practice assistants (MPAs). This article focusses on the follow-up survey of the two groups, administered shortly after the pandemic, to explore whether and which of the perceived changes persisted post-pandemic.

Methods

We administered a longitudinal, self-developed, paper-based survey to GPs and MPAs in three German federal states during the pandemic in April 2022 (baseline) and shortly after the pandemic in May 2023 (follow-up). The results were analysed descriptively.

Results

A total of 657 GPs and 762 MPAs participated in the baseline survey, and some 327 GPs and 369 MPAs took part in the follow-up survey. The results indicate that GPs and MPAs have perceived an increased frequency of scheduled visits and routine examinations since 2023. In contrast, during the pandemic, these services were offered at a considerably lower rate compared to pre-pandemic times. Compared to the data obtained from the baseline survey, the follow-up data indicates that both GPs and MPAs felt more satisfied with their work again, but still felt overburdened. Both professional groups continue to regard better remuneration, appreciation and more involvement in health policy decisions as the most important requirements. Additionally, our findings suggest that telephone sick notes, a separate service of infectious diseases consultation and mandatory face mask use for infectious patients should be maintained post-pandemic.

Discussion

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to numerous changes in GP care, some of which may have an impact beyond the pandemic. Shortly after the end of the pandemic, the changes in the supply and utilisation of GP services had not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels. This applied, for example, to aspects of the organisation of consultation hours, where sustainable changes and improvements have been made. Even after the end of the pandemic, GPs and MPAs are still calling for appropriate remuneration, better appreciation and less bureaucracy.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the changes in GP practices during and after the pandemic could provide important information about lessons learned, potentially useful adjustments and opportunities for improvements to daily practice as well as highlighting the importance of work satisfaction of GPs and MPAs.