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The following is a summary of “Evaluation of the German living guideline “Protection against the Overuse and Underuse of Health Care” – an online survey among German GPs,” published in the December 2024 issue of Primary Care by Warkentin et al.
Researchers conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the awareness and use of the German guideline “Protection against the overuse and underuse of health care” among general practitioners (GPs).
They conducted a cross-sectional online survey from 15.06. to 31.07.2023, targeting German College of General Practitioners and Family Physicians (DEGAM) members.
The results showed that 626 physicians were analyzed, with 51% female and a median age of 50. 81% knew the guideline, and 32% read it in detail. About 67% found the guidelines helpful in reducing overuse, and nearly 90% wanted more guidelines with clear “do-not-do” recommendations. Physicians reported that mean (M) 30.2% (SD = 19.3%) of patient requests and M = 30.2% (SD = 18.1%) of GP services were unnecessary due to overuse. Around 52% viewed overuse as a moderate or major issue in their practice, and 58% in general practice. Overuse was considered a major problem in specialists (87%) and inpatient care (82%). Changes in reimbursement, raising awareness, and evidence-based guidelines were seen as helpful solutions.
Investigators concluded that the guideline was considered useful in reducing medical overuse, but further implementation was needed. GPs identified overuse as more prevalent in specialist and inpatient care and focused on systemic solutions rather than self-criticism.
Source: bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-024-02657-1
