Assessment of general practitioners’ needs and barriers in primary health care delivery in Asia Pacific region

BACKGROUND: Primary health care is the key to achieve universal health coverage and health for all. The role of general practitioner is now more important than ever. Gaps exist between primary care doctors’ needs and available resources. Primary care professionals everywhere in the world are expected to provide basic standard of care and fulfill the unmet needs of the population. “Needs assessment” is essential in order to develop plans that reflect clinical priorities, educational needs, patient-centered care, and effective and efficient utilization of resources. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A blend of qualitative (28 in-depth interviews) and quantitative (315 survey respondents) research helped to identify the educational gaps of general practitioners in the Asia Pacific (APAC) countries. Our in-depth methodology assessed perceived needs in order to inform educational tactics that will engage physicians and drive changes in clinical practice. Barriers to change and best practices were identified so that those barriers may be addressed by the educational strategy. RESULTS: Key findings include a strong need for education for chronic conditions such as mental illness, skin problems, diabetes, hypertension, and others. The majority of physicians indicated that they prefer education in all aspects of the disease, from screening and diagnosis to maintenance or referral. Most clinicians prefer live presentations and small groups over Internet-based formats. Sub-analysis based on demographic factors showed little differences in the perceived needs, but significant differences in barriers to best practices. CONCLUSION: “Needs assessment” gives an insight into barriers, interest, and necessity related to education and skills in primary care and the best ways to deliver it.