Overview
Autoimmune blistering diseases (AIBDs) are a group of chronic skin conditions. They are associated with poor quality of life and can be fatal. Early diagnosis is important to improve outcomes, but AIBDs can be difficult to identify. Since GPs are often the first healthcare providers to see AIBDs, it is important to understand their perspectives on recognition and referral of AIBD patients.
We conducted twenty semi-structured online qualitative interviews with GPs from across the UK. Participants were recruited via GP pages on social media and through professional organisations such as the Primary Care Dermatology Society (PCDS). Of those who expressed interest, participants were sampled based on country, gender, experience, GP type, specialist interest, practice size, rurality and practice type to encourage a varied sample. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Framework analysis was then conducted using a pre-defined theoretical framework.
Study Aim:
To explore the views of GPs across the UK regarding recognition and referral of patients with AIBDs in primary care.
Objectives:
• Determining the challenges of recognising AIBDs
• Identifying how referral decisions are made when the cause of blistering is unclear
• Exploring potential tools to aid recognition of AIBDs
Key facts
1. Why do the research?
This research is important since people living with AIBDs often have poor quality of life. Additionally, some AIBDs, such as bullous pemphigoid, are becoming more common. While we know that earlier diagnosis can improve patient outcomes, understanding how to achieve this presents a challenge as AIBDs can be difficult to identify. GPs are often the first healthcare providers to see AIBDs so understanding their experiences and views on recognising and referring AIBD patients is key to tackling this issue.
2. How was the research conducted?
Twenty qualitative interviews were conducted with GPs from across the UK. Of those who expressed interest in being involved, a varied sample of participants were selected based on country, gender, experience, GP type, specialist interest, practice size, rurality and practice type. Interviews were carried out online, audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Framework analysis was then conducted using a pre-defined theoretical framework.
3. What do the results mean for patients?
The findings of the study are currently being written up and we hope to publish soon. In the meantime, we would like to thank all the GPs who took part in an interview.
Who funded the study?
The study was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care School for Primary Care Research.
Protocol
The full study protocol is available on the CEBD protocol registration page:
Protocol register