Mitra, Farzana, and Woolley, Torres (2020) Links between perceived general practitioner support and the wellbeing of Australian patients with persistent pain. Australian Family Physician, 49 (4). pp. 221-225.

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Abstract

Background and objective: Approximately one-fifth of the population have persistent pain of moderate-to-severe intensity, which affects patients physically, mentally, psychosocially and financially. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between self‑reported wellbeing of patients with persistent pain attending a pain clinic and perceptions of care from general practitioners (GPs) and other treating health professionals.

Methods: Patients with persistent pain completed a self-administered survey.

Results: Overall, only 29 (35%) patients with persistent pain were satisfied with their overall wellbeing, with a positive sense of wellbeing solely predicted by a belief that their GPs are 'treating their problem sympathetically' (P = 0.001; prevalence odds ratio = 5.4; 95% confidence interval: 1.9, 14.9). Voluntarily disclosed free-form comments from patients with persistent pain also appear to indicate that GP-managed pain clinics may be able to provide a more consistent level of support and care to patients with persistent pain than other practice settings.

Discussion: These findings suggest psychological support provided by GPs is an important factor for the maintenance of a positive sense of wellbeing for patients with persistent pain.

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