When General Practitioners Become Patients

Abstract

There is little known about the lived experiences of general practitioners (GPs) who become patients, despite good documentation of their health problems. This study provides a qualitative perspective on issues identified by GPs when they tell stories about their experiences of illness, including their interactions with attending physicians. Respondents articulated several tensions inherent in their experiences of being patients. These can best be described as competing discourses, both overt and covert, which intersect in ideas about patienthood, professionalism and competency. GPs are reluctant to admit to illness and find it difficult to relinquish control, while the consulting doctor knows the patient has medical expertise and is aware that his/her consulting style and choice of management will be scrutinized closely. Both doctors can experience role discomfort, even role ambiguity, but this is rarely articulated. This can lead to difficulties in shared management of the illness.