Care of the haematology patient and their family : the GP viewpoint

BACKGROUND: General practitioners play an important role in both the care of patients diagnosed with a haematological malignancy, and their families, along the continuum of care from the point of diagnosis to bereavement. There is scant research available on this experience from the GP perspective. This article presents insights from GPs who participated in a national study to develop a model of care in haematology. METHOD: Data was collected for this descriptive phenomenological study through open ended interviews. The two GP interviews were part of a national sample (n=96) from four states involving a diverse cross section of health professionals and consumers. RESULTS: The findings outline the GPs’ perspective on their roles, provides insight into their concerns, and makes suggestions for ensuring quality work with haematology patients and their families. DISCUSSION: The insights indicate that GPs want to be involved along the continuum of care and because of their holistic knowledge of the patient and their family, are well placed to provide leadership in the coordination of community based care.