RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Rethinking continuity in general practice for people with incurable illness: a qualitative case study of mesothelioma
JF British Journal of General Practice
JO Br J Gen Pract
FD British Journal of General Practice
SP bjgp26X745377
DO 10.3399/bjgp26X745377
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/bjgp26X745377.abstract
AB Background Continuity in general practice has clear benefits but is difficult to achieve. Existing research has identified groups of individuals who may especially benefit from continuity, such as those with a terminal condition. Mesothelioma is an incurable disease caused by asbestos exposure and people with this diagnosis derive significant benefit from continuity. However, there is little research exploring continuity in general practice for these individuals.Aim The aim of this study was to provide detailed understanding of experiences of continuity in UK general practice among people with mesothelioma, their close persons, and their healthcare professionals (HCPs); how they achieve this (or not); and how it affects their healthcare service use.Method Qualitative data obtained from longitudinal interviews with people with mesothelioma, their close persons, and their HCPs was used to construct detailed case studies. Reflexive thematic analysis was undertaken. Five individuals participated in a patient and public involvement capacity.Results Data from 54 interviews formed nine case studies. Findings are presented in relation to five overarching themes: 1) people with mesothelioma experience unique challenges in achieving continuity; 2) patient/close person capacity to facilitate continuity in general practice; 3) HCP capacity to facilitate continuity in general practice; 4) MDT approach differs from traditional family doctor model; and 5) ‘NHS general practice is broken’.Conclusion This research deepens understanding of continuity in general practice for people with mesothelioma. Although this study focused on people with mesothelioma in the UK, it is relevant to other international patient populations, particularly those with other rare conditions or palliative care needs.