Table 1.

Framework of the study methods

Methods used to answer the research questions		Dependent variables
Multilevel regression models	Independent variables	GP outcomes (4 variables)	Patient experience (3 variables)
Model 1: Mono-professional co-location	Variable 1: GP with other GPs	First research question: What relationships are there between GP co-location and the range of services provided, the use of clinical governance tools and inter-professional collaboration?	Second research question: What are the relationships between GP co-location and the accessibility, comprehensiveness and continuity of care as perceived by their patients?
Model 2: Multi-professional co-location	Variable 2: GP with other professionals
Model 3: Interaction between mono- and multi-professional co-location	Variable 1 x Variable 2: - Single-handed GP practice - Two or more GPs without other professionals - One GP with other professionals - Two or more GPs with other professionals
Model 4: Details of GP co-location with multi-professionals	Variable 2 detailed: - GP with nurse - GP with other health professionals - GP with social worker
Comparison of the results between the four models in order to identify differences in the relationships between independent variables and dependent variables		Third research questions: Do the mono- and multi-professional co-location of GPs and the combination of these two dimensions relate differently to GP outcomes and patient experiences?