An online resource supporting refugee healthcare in Australian general practice: An exploratory study

Background and objectives General practitioners (GPs) are known to encounter challenges when working with patients from refugee backgrounds. In this study we explore GPs’ perceptions of a trial version of the Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide website, an online resource designed to support GPs working in refugee health. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews in two phases with 10 GPs from Melbourne, Victoria. Data analysis involved a mixed inductive and deductive framework analysis approach. Results The website was viewed as a central repository of refugee health–specific information with useful links. It helped fill knowledge gaps for participants and affirm existing practice. The volume of text on each page was a potential barrier to use in clinical practice. Discussion Supporting GPs to become familiar with the website, further adapting it to make key information rapidly accessible and keeping it up to date will be critical to its future uptake.