Abstract
Objective: Adherence to asthma medication regimens is problematic in general practice. We developed and evaluated a communication training for general practitioners (GPs) to help them address medication adherence during routine consultations. This paper describes the development of the training and evaluation results of a pilot study. Methods: The training was based on behavior change counseling (BCC), a technique derived from motivational interviewing. We developed a five phases BCC consultation model. Participating GPs answered questions at baseline (T0), directly after (T1) and 4-10 months after (T2) the training that assessed their attitudes and confidence regarding adherence communication. They completed evaluation forms at T1 and T2. Results: The 19 participating GPs were positive about the course and the feasibility of BCC in GP consultations. Also, after the training, their attitudes and confidence had improved (p < 0.05) and all reported to use BCC skills at least sometimes 4-10 months after the training. Conclusion: These positive effects provide us with some hope that the training positively influenced the GP's communication behavior. Practice implications: If further data on physician behavior and patient outcomes justify implementation of the training, it would then be worthwhile to also involve practice nurses.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 279-287 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Patient Education and Counseling |
Volume | 58 |
Issue number | 3 SPEC. ISS. |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Sept 2005 |
Externally published | Yes |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:We thank the GPs for their participation and confidence in a PhD project still underway. The training was supported by a grant from GlaxoSmithKline. The first author is a member of the research school Psychology and Health.