What do consumers with chronic conditions expect from their interactions with general practitioners? A qualitative study of Australian consumer and provider perspectives

BACKGROUND: More than half of Australian adults manage one or more chronic conditions through ongoing interactions with general practitioners (GPs). Their experience of general practice interactions has important implications for their health outcomes and is thus important to explore in‐depth. Consumer expectations have emerged as a key consideration in this regard. How well they met in care settings can inform consumers' satisfaction and response to the care received. However, consumer expectations in Australian general practice are not well researched. OBJECTIVE: To identify key consumer expectations in clinical interactions in Australian general practice based on consumer and GP perspectives. DESIGN: Qualitative, phenomenological approach using thematic analysis of semi‐structured interviews. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Thirty‐one participants: 18 patients with one or more chronic (persisting > 6 months) conditions, 10 GPs and 3 GP registrars in Sydney, Australia. RESULTS: Consumer expectations were strongly related to the context of their ongoing therapeutic relationship with a regular GP. Themes relating to some of the most commonly reported consumer expectations were as follows: (a) the importance of longevity and continuity; (b) having good rapport; (c) GP's respect for consumer opinions and expertise; (d) having effective communication; and (e) addressing mental health. CONCLUSION: Australian GPs and consumers prioritize a positive, long‐term clinical relationship in which they respect one another and can communicate their expectations freely. This has implications for consumer satisfaction and in turn ensuring relational continuity, which is particularly relevant to the ongoing care and management of consumers with chronic conditions.