Patients' impressions about physicians working short-term in community clinics : A qualitative analysis of individual patient interviews / 日本プライマリ・ケア連合学会誌

ABSTRACT

<b>Introduction</b> To reveal patients' impressions of physicians working short-term in community clinics, and to explore methods for physicians to work short-term in community clinics.<br><b>Methods</b> We conducted a qualitative analysis of recordings of individual interviews performed on patients in community clinics using a partially revised SCAT (Steps for Coding and Theorization) method.<br><b>Results</b> Patients indicated that they felt reassured by the constant presence of a chief physician at community clinics. They expected care within the scope of primary care, but were not expecting every element within this scope to be met. Patients had the attitude of accepting the current situation and were selecting how to receive medical care from the available options based on their personal priorities.<br><b>Conclusion</b> Physicians working short-term in community clinics were satisfying a portion of the patients' needs. Providing care within the scope of primary care and taking the initiative in getting to know patients are essential elements for physicians working short-term in community clinics.