Diagnosing and Preventing Q Fever in Regional New South Wales, Australia—A Qualitative Exploration of Perspectives of General Practitioners

Abstract

Objective

To qualitatively explore the perceptions of general practitioners in regional New South Wales, Australia, on diagnosing, managing and preventing Q fever.

Setting

Q fever is a prevalent zoonosis in regional New South Wales, but diagnosis may be missed as patients have symptoms similar to influenza or COVID. Perspectives of general practitioners who are the primary health care providers in rural areas are important to understand the logistical difficulties in providing optimum care to Q fever patients.

Participants

General practitioners practicing outside of metropolitan Sydney in regional postcodes of New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

Eligible general practitioners were interviewed online using a semi-structured interview guide on their approach to diagnosis, management and prevention of Q fever. The data were transcribed, coded using NVivo software, and analysed to identify emerging overarching themes.

Results

Thematic saturation was achieved after 11 interviews. Diagnostic delays due to prioritising more common differential diagnoses for an influenza-like illness, difficulties in navigating the complex serological test interpretations for diagnosis, logistical difficulties in arranging immunisation, and the need for continuing medical education were the broad themes emerging from the data analysis.

Conclusions

Investment in continuing medical education and expansion of the reference resources made available to general practitioners regarding the diagnosis and management of Q fever will improve health care for people suffering from and at risk of Q fever in regional New South Wales.