Doctor–patient relationship
DISEASE, SAID
The doctor–patient relationship comprised two elements: the pre-existing relationship (influencing both expectations and experiences) and the relationship during and after the consultation (influencing only experiences). Most parents reported a trusting relationship with their GP, with several having long-standing relationships and good previous experiences. One father expressed that his GP ‘Parents emphasised the importance of feeling heard and understood by the GP during consultations. Additionally, most appreciated the GP comforting the child and directing his/her questions and explanations to the child.Mother (M4): ‘If something is wrong … he just really takes the time for you. Sometimes I am in the waiting room and the previous consultation is running late. But, actually, I find that a good sign because it means he takes the time for you. Also, for children, he really takes the time.’Others felt their GP downplayed the child’s symptoms.Mother (M8): ‘But I do find that he could have shown a bit more empathy and … talked with my child a bit more. Because what he is feeling … is really what he is feeling. And now he has the sense that he was pretending. But it actually is … real. ’Parents also felt comforted when the GP planned a follow-up consultation. This made them feel that the GP had acknowledged their concerns and the disease burden.Mother (M2): ‘She completely examined [my child], we had a good conversation, and she [said] we will see and to call in 2 weeks to discuss it again… it was not like… manage it yourself and goodbye. Not at all.’Similarly, parents felt isolated when the GP did not plan a follow-up consultation.Mother (M1): ‘If everything is ruled out [and] there are still symptoms, as a parent you want to do something… I would have appreciated a follow-up appointment, preferably already scheduled, so you can talk about it to find a good solution together. Although he cannot do anything with the test result [everything is ruled out]… let’s keep talking… like… what can I help you with? Do you actually need help, or do you think you can handle it on your own?’When younger, the 17-year-old respondent mentioned that he found his GP intimidating. However, recent consultations for his chronic GI symptoms had changed this because the GP was considered ‘