Differential diagnosis decision support systems in primary and out-of-hours care: a qualitative analysis of the needs of key stakeholders in Scotland

McParland, C. R., Cooper, M. A. and Johnston, B. (2019) Differential diagnosis decision support systems in primary and out-of-hours care: a qualitative analysis of the needs of key stakeholders in Scotland. Journal of Primary Care and Community Health, 10, (doi: 10.1177/2150132719829315) (PMID:30767602) (PMCID:PMC6378480)

Abstract

Background: Differential Diagnosis Decision Support Systems (DDDSS) and other forms of clinical decision support systems may have a role in supporting clinicians and the public in making decisions about differential diagnosis and accessing health care services. The aim of this qualitative, focus group study was to explore the needs of out-of-hours and primary care clinicians, and members of the public in relation to DDDSS. Methods: Twenty-nine participants (comprising 13 advanced nurse practitioners [ANPs], 7 general practitioners [GPs], 2 allied health professional advanced practitioners [AAPs], and 7 members of the public) took part in 1 of 6 focus groups. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. Results: Four themes were identified: (1) Current Practice, (2) Attitudes to DDDSS, (3) Implementation Considerations, and (4) Desirable Characteristics of DDDSS. Discussion: There may be a role for differential diagnosis decision support systems in supporting clinicians and members of the public; however, it is important that the needs of these groups are considered when designing or implementing any clinical decision support system in primary or out-of-hours care. More research is needed into how these systems could be used within clinical practice.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: McParland, Mr Chris and Cooper, Dr Mark and Johnston, Professor Bridget
• Authors: McParland, C. R., Cooper, M. A., and Johnston, B.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care
• Journal Name: Journal of Primary Care and Community Health
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• ISSN: 2150-1319
• ISSN (Online): 2150-1327
• Published Online: 15 February 2019
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2019 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Journal of Primary Care and Community Health 10: 2150132719829315
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License