HIV: patients attitudes to GPs.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the characteristics of HIV-infected patients attending hospital HIV outpatient clinics in Melbourne and to measure their attitudes to general practitioners.


METHODS
Data were collected by attending physician and by a self administered anonymous questionnaire given to patients sequentially and returned by prepaid envelope.


METHODS
Tertiary hospital HIV outpatient clinics.


METHODS
HIV-infected patients willing and able to participate.


RESULTS
Response rate 61%. This sample had high occupational status and functional capacity, and 63% had had GP care before hospital attendance. Only a small number of GPs are involved, and their involvement declined after hospital care commenced. There was strong overall support for shared care, although only 7% supported predominant care by a GP in the terminal phase, and only 39% supported predominant care by a GP when completely well. The major factors determining attitude toward GPs were the GPs' attitude, confidentiality and service, with knowledge and skills being more important for GPs who have a special interest in HIV care.


CONCLUSIONS
This group of patients have particular concerns about GPs that need to be addressed if GPs are to increase their involvement in HIV care.
Chenoweth
I G
IG
Department of Community Medicine, Monash University.
Piterman
L
L
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001290:Attitude; D001315:Australia; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010044:Outpatient Clinics, Hospital; D010348:Patient Care Team; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations