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. 2018 May 22;68(672):e495–e504. doi: 10.3399/bjgp18X696353
Type of data Themes
Use of template Establishing patient agenda A biopsychosocial perspective Agreeing health plans
3D nurse review observations Template intrusive, was followed closely and determined questions and structure. Nurses often explicitly referred to it to explain content of review. Data entry interrupted flow. Unfamiliarity with template slowed them down Elicited wide-ranging patient concerns, explored in detail. Musculoskeletal concerns less likely to be explored. Often categorised simply as pain and mobility problems. Validation and prioritisation of patient’s agenda in most cases Covered formally in every review because of template. Template questions about quality of life and PHQ-9 questionnaire could prompt exploration of psychosocial issues Management plans removed from nurse responsibility, but some nurses negotiated actions concerning long-term conditions within their own expertise
Usual-care nurse review observations Template structured the reviews but not intrusive as patients and nurses were familiar with it. Usually completed during review Restricted to reason for review.
Other unrelated problems occasionally raised but not explored in depth
Evident in many observations but mainly taking the form of social enquiry Usual conclusion to review was to summarise actions agreed or confirm no change to management
3D GP review observations Template mostly followed but in a more free-form way than by 3D nurses. Some overtly referred to template when checking review was complete and printing health plan. Data entry less intrusive than in nurse reviews.
Template use sometimes not obvious
Varied in extent to which previously compiled agenda was used. Not all GPs explored problems on patient agenda because: they lacked expertise; old problem; nothing new to add; or considered not relevant. Some new problems were identified In two-thirds of reviews there was evidence of in-depth understanding of psychosocial issues. In others, often where not obviously relevant to problems to be addressed, there was no evidence Health plans agreed in almost all cases. Occasional patient suggestions but mainly GP suggestions agreed to by patient and all formulated by GP rather than patient. Written plan not always provided
Usual-care GP review observation Had to rely on computer to look up information in patient record, which was time consuming Patient wanted to talk about other problems, not LTCs. GP reviewed LTCs and medications at length, then addressed other problems Not evident Prescriptions given and stated when to review

LTC = long-term condition. PHQ-9 = nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire.