Unemployed individuals contact GPs more frequently but report lower satisfaction: results of the population-based DEGS1 and the GPCare-1 patient survey

Abstract

Unemployment is associated with a variety of adverse health-related outcomes, yet little data on primary care services for this risk group exist. Using data from two surveys, we analyzed the frequency of GP contacts and patients’ experiences with GPs comparing unemployed with employed individuals. Data of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults (DEGS1), a nationwide cross-sectional study (n = 8151), were analyzed regarding associations between employment status and the number of GP visits. The General Practice Care-1 study (GPCare-1), a cross-sectional questionnaire survey (n = 813), evaluated patients’ communication with their GP. Data were collected from June to August 2020 in 12 teaching practices affiliated with our university. The statistical analysis included individuals of working age (18–64 years old) (DEGS1 n = 5659, GPCare-1 n = 587). In both studies, working age subpopulations were analyzed (DEGS1: n = 5659 of 8151, GPCare-1: n = 587 of 813). In DEGS1, the prevalence of unemployment was 6.5% (n = 372). Unemployed individuals had more GP contacts in the last 12 months (4.50 vs. 2.86, p < 0.001). In the GPCare-1 study, unemployed individuals (6.6%, n = 39) were significantly less satisfied with GP communication: enough space in consultations (42.9% vs. 60.3%, p = 0.043), feeling comfortable to address sensitive topics (44.1% vs. 65.9%, p = 0.010), problems taken very seriously by GP (48.6% vs. 70.6%, p = 0.007). Yet, they were more willing to accept GPs’ help for psychosocial burdens (67.6% vs. 47.6%, p = 0.024). GPs should be aware that patients with unemployment wish more support to cope with their burdening situation.

Patient satisfaction with primary health care services and primary health care providers

“…No significant differences in levels of satisfaction with providers were found in relation to sociodemographic factors. In contrast to many studies carried out worldwide, a study conducted in Germany by Ikar et al (2022) showed that unemployed individuals were less satisfied with doctors in PHC centers. Also, another study conducted by Franjo et al (2020) in Croatia revealed that patients between 26 and 40 years old were less satisfied with providers in PHC centers.…”

“…In contrast to many studies carried out worldwide, a study conducted in Germany by Ikar et al. (2022) showed that unemployed individuals were less satisfied with doctors in PHC centers. Also, another study conducted by Franjo et al.…”

Statistical indicators of unemployment in the Slovak Republic

“…Particular attention should therefore be paid to loneliness with additional support from employers and the government to improve health and well-being. Similarly, Ikar et al (2022) link unemployment to health. They compared the frequency of contact with GPs and patients' experiences of GPs among unemployed and employed people by using data from two surveys.…”