Abstract Body

Background and purpose: General practitioners (GPs) play a significant role in providing medical care to patients with COVID-19. They have to deal with the risks and consequences of the pandemic in both their professional and personal life. In this qualitative study we investigated GPs’ experiences of the COVID-19-pandemic using semi-structured interviews.

Methods: This qualitative study is part of a cross-sectional study with a mixed methods design, involving GPs in four federal states of Germany. Overall, 22 GPs participated in semi-structured interviews by telephone. We analyzed data according to Udo Kuckartz’ method of content analysis and used MAXQDA (version 2020).

Results: First results show that GPs rapidly reorganized their practice management and implemented new treatment strategies. GPs reported that continuity of care was ensured, however, they expressed their worries about how their social distancing practice may affect the relationship with their patients. GPs perceived a responsibility for their patients’ health, and therefore, they did not want to risk becoming infected and passing on the virus onto others. Facing several new challenges at work, the majority of respondents experienced psychological distress. Different solutions for improving primary care during the pandemic were suggested, such as facilitating cooperation and access to sources for advice and that administrative departments should provide clear information and consistent guidance.

Conclusions: This study provides insight into GPs’ experiences and perceptions of the current pandemic situation and can indicate potential ways on how to strengthen primary care in future disease outbreaks.