M Shirazi (Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) Karolika Institutet, Sweden); SV Parikh (Toronto University); R Gandomkar; S Ponzer; C Silén; Maryam Safarnavadeh (Kerman University)

Purpose

GPs’ difficulty to detect depression is a worldwide concern. WHO report states one third of GPs’ do not diagnose depression or if they do, the patients do not receive appropriate treatment. GPs’ thought on the management of depression disorder is a crucial issue to explore. This qualitative study explored the barriers of GPs’ behavior change regarding the management of depression.

Methods

A purposive sampling was carried out to obtain a diverse range of views in semi structured interviews with GPs. After twelve 60-minute interviews, we reached data saturation. Grounded approach was used to identify codes and categories which aggregated into themes. Two researchers independently double checked all codes. Thick descriptions and audit trail was also done to be sure of rigorous strategies.

Result

GPs’ beliefs regarding depression diagnosis & management Barriers were grouped into through 4 themes: Personal factors, Setting-related factors, Organizational factors and Society-related factors. Almost all participants agreed that patient economy, doctors fees, people insight to disease & treatment, patient insight to GP and patient-doctor communication were the most common factors, affecting GPs’ perception regarding management of depression. Other factors stated by them were prevalence, complexity of diagnosis and length of disease and treatment.

Applications and Future Directions

Given the importance of depressive disorders barriers by the GP in developing countries, understanding GPs beliefs and their experiences regarding these issues are of dire urgency.