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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
Date
2023-05-01
Volume
52
Issue
5
Pages
317-323
Journal Abbr
Aust J Gen Pract
Accessed
7/7/25, 1:16 AM
ISSN
2208794X, 22087958
Short Title
Late effects of polio
Language
en
Library Catalog
DOI.org (Crossref)
Notes

Study topic:

Health professionals’ awareness of the late effects of polio (LEoP) and post-polio syndrome (PPS), and strategies to improve continuing professional development in this area.

Study type:

Qualitative study (semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis).

Key findings:

  • Health professionals reported limited knowledge of the late effects of polio, often due to a lack of exposure to polio-related cases in training and practice.
  • GPs and allied health professionals identified a clear need for concise, accessible education about symptom management and referral pathways.
  • Participants noted that existing fragmented referral systems hinder coordinated care and that clearer pathways could support better patient outcomes.
  • Participants were unaware of the existing LEoP module on HealthPathways, highlighting a need for better promotion of this resource.
  • HealthPathways was identified as a trusted source for referral guidance, but awareness and usage varied across regions.
  • Peer-supported and multidisciplinary learning formats were preferred for continuing professional development on LEoP.
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