Submit your abstract for BJGPRC 2024

The BJGP Research & Publishing Conference will be returning on 22 March 2024, at RCGP Headquarters in London. It is an exceptional opportunity for researchers at all stages of their careers to acquire new research skills, present their work in a constructive, peer-reviewed environment, and connect with others. See past conferences' programmes and abstracts.

Book your ticket until 7 December 2023 for Early Bird pricing.
Submit your abstract via the BJGP Research & Publishing Conference website by 13 December 2023.

Musculoskeletal consultations and prescribing

Fewer people sought help from primary care for their musculoskeletal conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions according to a new study. Of those who did, a greater proportion were prescribed strong painkilling medicines, including strong opioids. This trend reversed as restrictions eased. Clinicians appeared to respond to patient needs during the pandemic amidst restrictions placed on non-pharmacological treatments. Commissioners and policy makers should consider the impact of these behaviour changes for future pandemic planning.

Patients' gut feelings

Research has revealed the importance of GPs' gut feelings in diagnosis, but new research looks at gut feelings in patients. It found that the way patients, or their relatives, share their gut feelings with primary care professionals is by communicating whether they trust or do not trust the situation. They also expressed perceiving changes to normal, familiar patterns. This research may help primary care professionals to recognise gut feelings which may contribute to better clinical reasoning.