Communication with general practitioners: a survey of spinal cord injury physicians’ perspectives

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2019 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-019-0187-7 · Published: April 20, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Patient Experience Healthcare

Simple Explanation

This study explores how spinal cord injury (SCI) specialists communicate with general practitioners (GPs) and the challenges they face. The research found that while most SCI specialists want to communicate with GPs, many feel the communication is only fair and is hindered by lack of time and GP receptiveness. The study suggests that using electronic communication methods could improve communication between specialists and GPs.

Study Duration

4 months

Participants

88 physicians who care for individuals with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
A majority of SCI specialists (61.8%) reported routinely communicating with GPs, but most (53.4%) rated the communication as only “fair”.
2
The most commonly listed barriers to communication with GPs were lack of time (46.3%) and a perceived lack of receptivity by GPs (26.9%).
3
Participants who used electronic means of communication were more likely to communicate with GPs and to describe those interactions as “positive”.

Research Summary

The study assessed SCI specialists’ communication with GPs, identifying factors that influence these interactions. Results indicated that most SCI specialists desire improved communication with GPs, but face barriers such as lack of time and perceived lack of GP receptiveness. The study suggests electronic communication may improve the quality and frequency of inter-physician communications.

Practical Implications

Improve Inter-Physician Communication

Healthcare systems should explore and implement technologies that facilitate communication between SCI specialists and GPs.

Address Barriers to Communication

Strategies are needed to address the lack of time and perceived lack of receptivity from GPs to improve communication with SCI specialists.

Further Research on Clinical Outcomes

Future studies should investigate whether improved communication between SCI specialists and GPs results in reduced re-hospitalization and SCI-related complications.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size, potentially obscuring findings.
2
Exclusion of insights from clinicians such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
3
Under-representation of participants from less-developed nations.

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