Objective: Adherence to asthma medication regimens is problematic in general practice. We developed and evaluated a communication training for general practitioners (GPs) to help them address medication adherence during routine consultations. This paper describes the development of the training and evaluation results of a pilot study.

Methods: The training was based on behavior change counseling (BCC), a technique derived from motivational interviewing. We developed a five phases BCC consultation model. Participating GPs answered questions at baseline (T0), directly after (T1) and 4-10 months after (T2) the training that assessed their attitudes and confidence regarding adherence communication. They completed evaluation forms at T1 and T2.

Results: The 19 participating GPs were positive about the course and the feasibility of BCC in GP consultations. Also, after the training, their attitudes and confidence had improved (p<0.05) and all reported to use BCC skills at least sometimes 4-10 months after the training.

Conclusion: These positive effects provide us with some hope that the training positively influenced the GP's communication behavior.

Practice Implications: If further data on physician behavior and patient outcomes justify implementation of the training, it would then be worthwhile to also involve practice nurses.

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Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2005.06.001DOI Listing

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