Doctors treating family members: A qualitative study among primary care practitioners in a teaching hospital in Malaysia

Nik-Sherina, H. and Ng, C.J. (2006) Doctors treating family members: A qualitative study among primary care practitioners in a teaching hospital in Malaysia. Asia Pacific Family Medicine, 5 (2). ISSN 1444-1683,

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Official URL: http://www.apfmj-archive.com/afm5_2/afm35a.htm

Abstract

Aim: To explore primary care practitioners� experiences and feelings about treating their own family members. Methods: A qualitative study was carried out using focus group discussions. Five sessions were held among 22 primary care practitioners (five academic staff members and 17 medical officers). Results: Most participants treated their family members, especially their immediate families. They considered factors such as duration and severity of illness before seeking consultation with other doctors. Some participants felt satisfied knowing that they were able to treat their own families. However, most felt burdened and uncomfortable in doing so, mainly due to the fear of error in diagnosis and management. They were concerned that strong emotions may make them lose objectivity. Many were aware that negative outcomes resulting from their treatment may affect future relationships. Conclusions: While some doctors were comfortable about treating their own families, some faced significant conflict in doing so. Their decisions depended on the interplay of factors including the doctor, the family member and the relationship they share. A doctor needs to consider the potential conflict that may arise when carrying out one�s professional role and at the same time being a concerned family member.

Item Type: Article
Funders: UNSPECIFIED
Additional Information: Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Building, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA
Uncontrolled Keywords: Doctors, Family, Malaysia, Primary care, Self-treat.
Subjects: R Medicine
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine
Depositing User: Ms azrahani halim
Date Deposited: 04 Nov 2014 02:26
Last Modified: 07 Aug 2017 09:09
URI: http://eprints.um.edu.my/id/eprint/10307

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