64431 Journal Article.pdf (409.18 kB)
Epicentre of influenza - The primary care experience in Melbourne, Victoria
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 02:55 authored by Bocquet, J, Tania WinzenbergTania Winzenberg, Shaw, KABackground General practice in Australia is expected to play a major role in responding to an influenza pandemic. This study investigated the experience of frontline general practice during the H1N1 influenza pandemic of 2009. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with general practices in the northern suburbs of Melbourne (Victoria) in August and September 2009. Purposive sampling chose practices with high volumes of patient presentations early in the pandemic. Interviews were content transcribed at the time of interview. Major themes were identified through discussion with general practice division personnel and academic general practitioners in the field. Results There was significant variability in the pandemic experiences of the 10 participating practices. Discussion Addressing issues identified in this study could increase the capacity of general practice to support the community and public health measures during a pandemic. Future planning for the role of general practice in pandemics should include pre-pandemic assessment of practice capacity, review of public health communication strategies and workforce protection, and improved integration of general practice and public health responses.
History
Publication title
Australian Family PhysicianVolume
39Issue
5Pagination
313-316ISSN
0300-8495Department/School
Menzies Institute for Medical ResearchPublisher
Royal Australian College of General PractitionersPlace of publication
AustraliaRights statement
Copyright to Australian Family Physician. Reproduced with permission. Permission to reproduce must be sought from the publisher, The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.Repository Status
- Open