Author or contributor

Late effects of polio: Interviewing general practitioners and health professionals about the need for and the means of promoting continuing professional development

Resource type
Authors/contributors
Title
Late effects of polio: Interviewing general practitioners and health professionals about the need for and the means of promoting continuing professional development
Abstract
Background and objectives Polio Australia estimates tens of thousands of polio survivors are experiencing late effects of polio (LEoP), including increased cases among young women of childbearing age in some migrant communities. Because polio has been declared eradicated in Australia, the provision and uptake of education by general practitioners (GPs) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) is minimal. We explored the awareness of LEoP among HCPs and ways to enhance knowledge dissemination to improve clinical practice. Methods A qualitative study was undertaken, informed by a descriptive (transcendental) phenomenological approach. Semistructured interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed inductively, with a conciliation among the research team used to finalise the themes. Results HCPs expressed the importance of learning about LEoP and how this may help build supportive patient–practitioner relationships and contribute to patient outcomes. Factors influencing the uptake of professional development included motivation, possibly stemming from a lack of awareness of LEoP, together with the time and logistical limitations of practice generally. Discussion Online learning activities followed by an assessment may be attractive for some HCPs, but peer-based and multidisciplinary continuing professional development activities remain preferred.
Publication
Australian Journal of General Practice
Volume
52
Issue
5
Pages
317-323
Date
2023-05-01
Journal Abbr
Aust J Gen Pract
DOI
10.31128/AJGP-07-22-6504
ISSN
2208794X, 22087958
Short Title
Late effects of polio
Accessed
2025-07-07T01:16:55Z
Library Catalog
DOI.org (Crossref)
Citation
Quinlan-Turner, P., Lau, P., & McVilly, K. R. (2023). Late effects of polio: Interviewing general practitioners and health professionals about the need for and the means of promoting continuing professional development. Australian Journal of General Practice, 52(5), 317–323. https://doi.org/10.31128/AJGP-07-22-6504