Page 50 - Diagnostic delay of endometriosis

Appendix
Interview guide focus groups
Participants’ opinion about factors related to the diagnostic delay
o When to consult a medical professional
o Involvement of friends, relatives and significant others
o Use of over the counter analgesics
o Effect of medical treatment initiated by general practitioner
o Knowledge of general practitioner concerning endometriosis
o Differentiating between normal and abnormal menstrual complaints o Physical examination by general practitioner
o Use of additional diagnostic testing
o Time between first presentation to general practitioner and referral
to secondary care (barriers and facilitators)
o Referral directly to gynaecologist or other medical specialist
o Time between referral to gynaecologist and diagnosis (barriers and
facilitators) o Subfertility
o Absence from school or work due to menstrual complaints
o Interaction between patient and medical professional, continuity of
care
Participants’ opinion about which factors are most important in endometriosis care, for instance (but not restricted to)
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o o o o o o o o
o
Available (online) information about endometriosis Being taken seriously
Continuity of medical care (same doctor)
Timely start of empiric treatment
Information given by medical professional
Fast referral
Referral to tertiary care (possible pros and cons)
Knowledge about endometriosis in general practitioners (both related to the diagnostic procedure and support after diagnosis) Continuation of care by general practitioner after diagnosis and initiation of treatment by gynaecologist