Primary Care Experience of Older Australians with Chronic Illness
Saunders, C, Carter, DJ & Brown, J 2019, 'Primary Care Experience of Older Australians with Chronic Illness', Australian Journal of Primary Health, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 13-18
Posted: 8 Apr 2020
Date Written: February 6, 2019
Abstract
This large (>1000) cross-sectional study investigates patient-reported primary care experiences of older people with chronic illness. Previous research has found that approximately half of patients with chronic illness receive optimal chronic illness care and outcomes in Australian general practice. A survey was administered via a double opt-in panel method to people aged ≥55 years who have one or more self-reported major chronic diseases (diabetes and/or chronic heart, kidney, lung, mental health and/or musculoskeletal conditions). Health professionals were found to be important to the majority of Australians surveyed. Well-known chronic illness support resources such as care plans and recalls/reminders were reported to be wanting by up to 50 per cent of respondents. Across all chronic illness groups, <42 per cent of respondents reported the provision of information on community resources and 25 per cent reported not having a sound understanding about their medications. Regular local surveys for older people with chronic illness would allow a timely understanding of primary care experiences, needs and preferences of this group, to support quality improvement and drive enhanced patient outcomes.
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
David J. Carter (Contact Author)
University of New South Wales (UNSW) - UNSW Law & Justice ( email )
Kensington, New South Wales 2052
Australia
HOME PAGE: http://https://www.unsw.edu.au/staff/david-carter