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BMC Palliative Care
Published in: BMC Palliative Care 1/2017

Open Access 01-12-2017 | Research article

Primary care physicians’ educational needs and learning preferences in end of life care: A focus group study in the UK

Authors: Lucy Ellen Selman, Lisa Jane Brighton, Vicky Robinson, Rob George, Shaheen A. Khan, Rachel Burman, Jonathan Koffman

Published in: BMC Palliative Care | Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Background

Primary care physicians (General Practitioners (GPs)) play a pivotal role in providing end of life care (EoLC). However, many lack confidence in this area, and the quality of EoLC by GPs can be problematic. Evidence regarding educational needs, learning preferences and the acceptability of evaluation methods is needed to inform the development and testing of EoLC education. This study therefore aimed to explore GPs’ EoLC educational needs and preferences for learning and evaluation.

Methods

A qualitative focus group study was conducted with qualified GPs and GP trainees in the UK. Audio recordings were transcribed and analysed thematically. Expert review of the coding frame and dual coding of transcripts maximised rigour.

Results

Twenty-eight GPs (10 fully qualified, 18 trainees) participated in five focus groups. Four major themes emerged: (1) why education is needed, (2) perceived educational needs, (3) learning preferences, and (4) evaluation preferences. EoLC was perceived as emotionally and clinically challenging. Educational needs included: identifying patients for palliative care; responsibilities and teamwork; out-of-hours care; having difficult conversations; symptom management; non-malignant conditions; and paediatric palliative care. Participants preferred learning through experience, working alongside specialist palliative care staff, and discussion of real cases, to didactic methods and e-learning. 360° appraisals and behavioural assessment using videoing or simulated interactions were considered problematic. Self-assessment questionnaires and patient and family outcome measures were acceptable, if used and interpreted correctly.

Conclusions

GPs require education and support in EoLC, particularly the management of complex clinical care and counselling. GPs value mentoring, peer-support, and experiential learning alongside EoLC specialists over formal training.
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Metadata
Title
Primary care physicians’ educational needs and learning preferences in end of life care: A focus group study in the UK
Authors
Lucy Ellen Selman
Lisa Jane Brighton
Vicky Robinson
Rob George
Shaheen A. Khan
Rachel Burman
Jonathan Koffman
Publication date
01-12-2017
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Palliative Care / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 1472-684X
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12904-017-0191-2

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