Epidemien und Pandemien in der hausärztlichen Praxis: Was können wir aus dem Schweinegrippe (H1N1)- und EHEC-Ausbruch lernen?

Translated title of the contribution: Epidemics and pandemics in general practice: What can we learn from the swine flu (H1N1) and EHEC outbreak?

Marion Eisele*, Heike Hansen, Hans Otto Wagner, Eike Von Leitner, Nadine Pohontsch, Martin Scherer

*Corresponding author for this work
4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: As primary care givers with a coordinating function, general practitioners (GP) play a key role in dealing with epidemics and pandemics. As of yet, there are no studies in Germany describing the difficulties experienced by GPs in patient care during epidemics/pandemics. Objectives: This study aimed at identifying the problem areas in GPs' patient care during the H1N1 and EHEC (enterohemorrhagic strain of Escherichia coli) outbreaks. With this information, recommendations for guaranteeing proper patient care during future epidemics/pandemics can be derived. Materials and methods: In all, 12 qualitative, semi-structured, open guideline interviews with GPs in Hamburg and Lübeck were conducted, transcribed, and evaluated with qualitative content analysis. Results: Five areas in ambulatory patient care were identified in which changes are needed from the primary care perspective: provision of information for GPs, workload, financing of epidemic-related measures, organization of the practices, care of those taken ill. Conclusions: The workload of GPs in particular can and should be reduced through successful, centralized information distribution during epidemics/pandemics. The GP's function as a coordinator should be supported and consolidated, in order to relieve the in-patient sector in cases of an epidemic/pandemic. Secured financing of epidemic-associated measures can help ensure patient care.

Translated title of the contributionEpidemics and pandemics in general practice: What can we learn from the swine flu (H1N1) and EHEC outbreak?
Original languageGerman
JournalBundesgesundheitsblatt - Gesundheitsforschung - Gesundheitsschutz
Volume57
Issue number6
Pages (from-to)687-693
Number of pages7
ISSN1436-9990
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 06.2014

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