Changes in the Attitudes of GPs to the Health Screening of Patients with Learning Disabilities

Abstract

GPs appear reluctant to undertake health screening for people with learning disabilities. This article describes a specialist health screening service delivered mainly by community learning disability nurses to nearly 600 children and adults. Prior to the service being established, 141 GPs within a defined area were surveyed and 51 percent responded. Although a majority thought the service would be helpful, three-quarters felt it was better provided within the context of special services. After screening, 54 percent of the sample (318 persons) were referred to their GP for further assessment and treatment, nearly all for physical health needs. A second study investigated the attitudes of 91 GPs who had patients referred. Those (45) who reported dealing with a referral were more favourably disposed to undertaking health screening within their practice, whereas those (23) who had been uninvolved continued to opt for specialist provision. Options for encouraging more GPs to offer preventive health care to this client groups are discussed, including medical training, extra consulting time and linking community learning disability nurses with GP practices.