Expectations of patients with hepatitis C from family physicians – a Polish example

Introduction. In Poland, approximately 1.9% of the general population is infected with Chronic hepatitis C (HCV), which develops in about 70–80% of infected patients who require constant care from family physicians. Objective. The aim of the study was to define the kinds of expectations of patients with chronic HCV from family physicians. Materials and method. The study included 220 patients with HCV, and was conducted using a dignostic survey, the Patient Request Form (PRF) and an author-constructed questionnaire. Results. The respondents most often expected from a family physician, an explanation of the disease (9.67 scores), and obtaining information concerning examinations and treatment (9.65 scores), while to a lesser degree, emotional support (6.92 scores). Respondents with higher education to a significantly higher degree expected an explanation of the essence of the disease. Patients who were inactive occupationally significantly more frequently expected emotional support and information concerning examinations and treatment. Respondents who considered themselves disabled due to HCV, to a significantly higher degree expected emotional support and information concerning examinations and treatment. The remaining variables: age, gender, place of residence, marital status, self-reported state of health and ordered, diet had no significant effect on the expectations of patients with chronic hepatitis C from family physicians. Conclusions. Patients with HCV, to the highest degree expected an explanation of the disease and information concerning examinations and treatment, and to a lower degree – emotional support during consultations.