Embedding electronic decision-support tools for suspected cancer in primary care: a qualitative study of GPs' experiences.

Embedding electronic decision-support tools for suspected cancer in primary care: a qualitative study of GPs' experiences. Prim Health Care Res Dev. 2015 Mar 3;:1-8 Authors: Dikomitis L, Green T, Macleod U Abstract Aim The purpose of this evaluation was to obtain views from general practitioners (GPs) who piloted the electronic risk assessment tools (eRATs) for suspected lung or colorectal cancer. We wanted to find out whether GPs were able to integrate these tools into their everyday practice. We were also keen to identify facilitators and barriers to their more widespread use. BACKGROUND: Cancer remains one of UK's biggest health problems, in terms of morbidity and mortality. Comparative European data show that five-year survival figures for many cancers are lower in the United Kingdom than in comparable European countries. eRATs are intended to aid recognition of symptoms of lung and colorectal cancers in patients aged 40 years and over. METHODS: This was a qualitative study; telephone interviews were conducted with 23 GPs who piloted the eRATs. A systematic qualitative analysis was applied to the data. The normalisation process model was used after data collection. This theory-driven conceptual framework was used to examine the operationalisation of this intervention in Primary Care. Findings Electronic decision-support tools appear to be useful additions to the resources available to GPs in order to assist them w...
Source: Primary Care - Category: Primary Care Authors: Tags: Prim Health Care Res Dev Source Type: research