Hardnekkige aanhoudende lichamelijke klachten in de huisartsenpraktijk

• Published in: Tijdschrift voor psychiatrie Vol. 66; no. 4; p. 195
• Main Authors: Rutten, S, Hulscher, M, Boeschoten, R E, Keuning, I, van Eck van der Sluijs, J F, Rikkers, M, den Boer, C, Maarseveen, J, Olde Hartman, T, Tak, L M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Dutch
• Published: Netherlands 2024
• Subjects: Female; General Practice; Humans; Male; Netherlands; Prevalence; Surveys and Questionnaires; Netherlands
• ISSN: 0303-7339

In the care of patients with persevering ('treatment-resistant') persistant physical symptoms (PPS), problems are common. With this study, we want to identify starting points for improvement of care, including suggestions for the role of mental health care. Using the profile for persevering PPS we will estimate the prevalence, describe characteristics of this patient group and map problems encountered in their care. Online survey in general practitioners (GPs). The response rate to the survey was 12.8%. The mean estimated prevalence of persevering PPS in general practice was 0.7% (corresponding to an estimated 122,500 patients throughout the Netherlands). Many patients encountered iatrogenic harm, experience societal problems and limitations in mobility and ADL independence. Although there was a general increased use of health care in these patients, some also avoided care or were under-treated. In the persistence of symptoms, patient-related factors played a role (like insisting on further somatic diagnostic tests, lack of motivation for PPS-specific treatment), but health-care related factors, like rejection for care or a lack of regional treatment options for patients with PPS, also had a causal role. Almost every GP experiences problems in the care for patients with persevering PPS. Mental health care professionals can support the GP better, by optimizing options for consultation and referral.