GP-led melanoma follow-up: the practical experience of GPs
author: Dr. Peter Murchie p.murchie@abdn.ac.uk University of Aberdeen Centre of Academic Primary Care Aberdeen United Kingdom; Dr. Elizabeth Kathleen Delaney liz.delaney@abdn.ac.uk University of Aberdeen Centre of Academic Primary Care Aberdeen United Kingdom; Dr. Neil Campbell n.campbell@abdn.ac.uk University of Aberdeen Centre of Academic Primary Care Aberdeen United Kingdom; Prof. Philip Hannaford p.hannaford@abdn.ac.uk University of Aberdeen Centre of Academic Primary Care Aberdeen Grampian United Kingdom
language: en

Abstract

Objectives To explore how GP-led melanoma follow-up had actually worked by exploring in detail the practical experiences of GPs running the programme. Design Semi-structured audio-taped telephone interviews with GPs delivering a GP-led follow-up programme for people with cutaneous malignant melanoma. Subjects 17 general practitioners currently delivering structured GP-led routine follow-up for Results GP-led melanoma follow-up worked well from the perspectives of GPs. The GPs felt that they were well equipped and supported in undertaking the follow-up consultations, and recognised that they were freeing up hospital consultant time. They felt that patients appreciated the convenience of GP-led follow-up. The GPs felt that: a robust recall system; initial training with regular refreshers; and effective consultant back-up were vital components of a successful long-term programme. Conclusions GP-led melanoma follow-up is feasible and, provided certain concerns can be addressed, GPs are willing to provide it.