Abstract
Objectives. To explore how GP-led melanoma follow-up had actually worked from the perspective of GPs by exploring in detail the practical experience of GPs running the programme.
Design. Semi-structured audio-taped telephone interviews with GPs delivering a GP-led follow-up programme for people with cutaneous malignant melanoma.
Subjects. Seventeen GPs currently delivering structured GP-led routine follow-up for people with cutaneous melanoma.
Results. GP-led melanoma follow-up worked well from the perspectives of GPs. The GPs felt that they were well equipped and supported in undertaking the follow-up consultations and recognized that they were freeing up hospital consultant time. They felt that patients appreciated the convenience of GP-led follow-up. The GPs felt that a robust recall system, initial training with regular refreshers and effective consultant backup were vital components of a successful long-term programme.
Conclusions. GP-led melanoma follow-up is feasible and, provided certain concerns can be addressed, GPs are willing to provide it.
Design. Semi-structured audio-taped telephone interviews with GPs delivering a GP-led follow-up programme for people with cutaneous malignant melanoma.
Subjects. Seventeen GPs currently delivering structured GP-led routine follow-up for people with cutaneous melanoma.
Results. GP-led melanoma follow-up worked well from the perspectives of GPs. The GPs felt that they were well equipped and supported in undertaking the follow-up consultations and recognized that they were freeing up hospital consultant time. They felt that patients appreciated the convenience of GP-led follow-up. The GPs felt that a robust recall system, initial training with regular refreshers and effective consultant backup were vital components of a successful long-term programme.
Conclusions. GP-led melanoma follow-up is feasible and, provided certain concerns can be addressed, GPs are willing to provide it.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 317-324 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Family Practice |
Volume | 26 |
Issue number | 4 |
Early online date | 17 Jun 2009 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Aug 2009 |