A qualitative study on general practitioners’ perspectives on late-life depression in Singapore – part II: system- and physician-related factors

• DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/hmzk3
• Publication Date: 2024-08-16T01:00:00Z
• Authors: Anna Szücs; V Vien Lee; Laurie J Goldsmith; Alicia Ong Huiying; Tim J Hart; Victor W K Loh; Monica Lazarus; Choon Kit Leong; Vivien Lee; Foon Leng Leong; Doris YL Young; Andrea B. Maier; Jose M. Valderas
• Keywords: Depression

BackgroundLittle is known about the practices and resources employed by general practitioners (GPs) in Singapore to manage late-life depression. As country stepping up its efforts promote collaborative care across community mental health geriatric care, understanding GPs’ current when managing depression appears timely. MethodsThis qualitative descriptive study explored perspectives on of 28 private GPs practicing through online semi-structured group individual interviews. were purposively sampled age, gender, ethnicity. Analysis followed a reflexive thematic approach focused physician- system-related factors.FindingsClinical instinct, experience, knowledge appropriate for specific patients played an important role during care. paid particular attention communicating with tactfully initial assessments diagnosis, although some chose be upfront whom they had already established rapport. Using non-English languages could mitigate stigma cases but added confusion others. relied primarily their own professional support network Although acknowledged usefulness public services, felt that was hindered lack efficient communication channels between providers financial coverage coordinate frequently complex depressed older adults.InterpretationCurrent vary greatly Singapore. This needs considered ongoing reforms achieve effective