RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Rethinking continuity in general practice for people with mesothelioma: recommendations for clinical practice, research, and policy
JF British Journal of General Practice
JO Br J Gen Pract
FD British Journal of General Practice
SP bjgp26X744897
DO 10.3399/bjgp26X744897
VO 76
IS suppl 1
A1 Couchman, Emilie
A1 Ejegi-Memeh, Steph
A1 Mitchell, Sarah
A1 Gardiner, Clare
YR 2026
UL http://bjgp.org/content/76/suppl_1/bjgp26X744897.abstract
AB Background Continuity in general practice has clear benefits but is difficult to achieve. Mesothelioma is an incurable disease caused by asbestos exposure. People with mesothelioma potentially derive significant benefit from continuity; but more evidence is needed.Aim To make policy relevant recommendations and develop new guidance to support people with mesothelioma, their close persons, and healthcare professionals, to achieve continuity in general practice.Method Stakeholder consultation workshops were undertaken to discuss the implications of realist case study data acquired earlier in the study, and form recommendations to optimise service design and delivery. Five individuals participated in a patient and public involvement capacity. Analysis consisted of three components: reflexive thematic analysis (inductive); formation of realist Context-Mechanism-Outcome configurations (retroductive) leading to programme theory refinement; and application of existing theory (deductive).Results Recommendations for practice, policy, and research, to facilitate continuity for people with mesothelioma in general practice, are presented. Clinician- and patient-facing outputs were developed to both contextualise and present the recommendations. Individuals providing patient and public involvement support contributed to the content and structure of outputs.Conclusion This realist research deepens understanding of continuity in NHS general practice for people with mesothelioma. Findings are relevant to other patient populations, particularly those with rare conditions or palliative care needs. Recommendations and novel outputs are targeted towards clinicians, researchers, policymakers and commissioners, and may be used in educational contexts, in clinical practice, and at policy level to guide resource allocation and service development.