GP referral process for isotretinoin treatment in moderate to severe acne

2^nd International Conference on General Practice & Primary Care

September 18-20, 2017 | Zurich, Switzerland

Munther Zureigat, Judy Mullan, Jo-Ann See and Andrew Booney

University of Wollongong, Australia

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Gen Pract (Los Angel)

Abstract :

Background: Acne Vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological presentations in General practice. Acne scarring is a known major consequence of late referrals for Isotretinoin treatment as the drug is effective in preventing scarring if started early. This project will investigate the barriers and facilitators of referral to dermatologists from GPs for Isotretinoin treatment in regional and rural areas. Methods: Twenty semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with GPs from Metropolitan, Regional, and Rural area in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Interviews were then analyzed by three independent researchers using a constant comparative analysis framework. Results: Three core themes of participants� responses were identified: Theme 1: The GP approach to acne presentation. As part of this theme it became apparent that some participants had a comprehensive holistic approach to acne patients, whereas others had more of unidimensional approach. Theme 2: Patient factors contributed to acne treatment approaches. These factors included recognizing scarring as a major complication of acne, recognizing patient psychological distress, and prior treatment received. Theme 3: GP participants believed that shared goals with their dermatologist colleagues were very important. They also believed that ready access to dermatologists would help with better outcomes. Conclusion: The study found that there were some limitations in the way in which GPs were managing acne treatment in the community settings. Based on the study findings it could be suggested that a number of strategies could be incorporated to help address these limitations. These strategies could include professional development education regarding acne presentations and early recognition of acne scarring, a more collaborative relationship between GPs and specialist dermatologists, as well as dermatological telehealth consultations especially in regional and rural environment.

Biography :

Munther Zureigat is a Chief Investigator and also a rural general practitioner in Milton, New South Wales.