Table 2.

Examples of the seven different themes

Theme	Examples cited in articles
Health concerns	- Perceived severity of problem - Seeking assurance - Patient perceived the complaint was urgent
Expecting investigations	- Further research (eg X-rays) was necessary - Perceived facilities and investigations better at A&E - See doctor and have tests/x-rays done in same place
Advice of others	- On the advice of others - Sent by someone (usually employer) - They were referred by the staff (not the doctor) in PCP’s offices to be evaluated in the ED
Convenience of ED	- Patient could get help earlier at the ED - The ED was nearby - Convenience of access
Accessibility of GP	- Patient could not reach the GP/GP-cooperative - Unavailability of GP - Too long wait for family doctor
Financial considerations	- Payment flexibility - Affordability - Low cost
No confidence in GP	- Patient had no faith/trust in the GP - Previous negative experience with the GP/GP-cooperative - Dissatisfied with GP