Advance decisions: uncovering what GPs need

Findings of a research project to better understand the knowledge and experience GPs have of advance decisions. Five themes emerged from this study and include: GPs had significant gaps in knowledge about advance decisions and how they can benefit people; GPs imposed a financial barrier by charging for appointments to discuss advance decisions; GPs felt that conversations about death, dying and planning for the end of life would be too upsetting or difficult; GPs had negative preconceptions about refusing treatment; and GPs had practical concerns about the ease and process of supporting a person to make an advance decision.