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Family Practice Advance Access published online on April 11, 2006
Family Practice, doi:10.1093/fampra/cml014
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© The Author (2006). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.
Received October 5, 2005
Accepted March 14, 2006

Article

The GP's response to pandemic influenza: a qualitative study

Kelly A. Shaw 1 *, Anna Chilcott 2, Emily Hansen 2, and Tania Winzenberg 3

1 Southern Tasmanian Division of General Practice, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Australia
2 Discipline of General Practice, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Australia
3 Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Australia

* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
Kelly A. Shaw, E-mail: kelly.shaw{at}dhhs.tas.gov.au


  Abstract

Background. Current pandemic influenza plans to place GPs at the front line of a pandemic influenza response. However, little is known about GPs' perceptions of their role and preparedness in the event of a pandemic occurring.

Objective. Our aim was to assess general practice preparedness to respond to pandemic influenza and to identify issues that need to be addressed to enhance preparedness for the next pandemic.

Methods. We conducted a series of semi-structured interviews to explore GPs' views regarding their role in responding to pandemic influenza, practice preparedness and planning issues, and the expectations and requirements of GPs for provision of professional services during a pandemic. The subjects were 60 Australian GPs, purposively selected to maximize diversity within the sample.

Results. GPs in this study expressed a willingness to provide professional services in a pandemic. The motivation for this was largely altruistic and was in the context of high personal risk of becoming infected. Participants did not have stockpiles of antivirals or personal protective equipment within their practices and felt that government had a duty of care to stockpile on behalf of the general practice workforce. Participants were enthusiastic about receiving further information and training in pandemic preparedness. The most appropriate setting for this was within practices.

Conclusions. GPs were willing to provide clinical services in a pandemic. However, appropriate education, training and supply of equipment were necessary to support them in this role. This information will inform further planning for the public health response to pandemic influenza.

Keywords: Equipment; primary health care; public health; training.
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