Concerns about the professional risk involved in delivering patient care is one of the top three reasons GPs are leaving clinical practice, according to new research by the University of Exeter.
The study, published in BMJ open, is based on qualitative data from in-depth interviews with 41 GPs in South West England, and 19 representatives from a range of primary care-related professional organisation. Seven of the GPs were retired, eight intending to take early retirement, and 11 who were on or intending to take a career break.
The authors identified three reasons for disengaging in direct patient care: a sense that general practice-based primary care is undervalued within the healthcare system; fear and anxiety regarding different aspects of risk; and consideration of the options and choices available.
Many GPs felt compromised in their ability to practise in their preferred way e.g. in the length of time they were able to spend with patients, and this impacted negatively on morale, professionalism and identity. Factors cited included unrealistic demands; concerns about complaints; targets and guidelines; complexity of cases; time constraints; lack of continuity; and loss of professional autonomy.
The authors say the findings show that solutions to the present crisis in GP workforce capacity do not lie in short-term initiatives or attempts to boost GP resilience. “Effective strategies will need to demonstrate understanding of the key role and value of general practice, to manage the risks inherent in providing general practice, and to provide a range of viable ways in which GPs can continue to contribute their key role to the NHS patient care,” conclude.