The existential dimension in general practice: identifying understandings and experiences of general practitioners in Denmark

Figures & data

Table 1. Demographic data of the participating GPs.

	N (%)
Male	17 (54.8)
Female	14 (45.2)
Location of GP practice
Rural	19 (61.3)
Urban	12 (38.7)
Type of GP practice
Single	6 (19.4)
Group (two or more GPs)	25 (80.6)
	Mean age (range)
Male	54 (36–68)
Female	49 (38–68)
Years of practice experience	18 (3–42)

Table 2. Interview guide for the focus group interviews.

Main themes	Probing questions
General understanding of the existential dimension – how?	•Could you please describe to me how you understand the existential dimension in general – without necessarily linking it to a general practice setting?
Specific understanding – when?	•Could you please tell me when you have experienced to meet the existential dimension in your daily practice?•When is the existential dimension expressed by your patients, according to you?
Specific understanding – how?	•How do you address the existential dimension in the encounter with the patient – if at all?•Have you experienced to refer one of your patients to a psychologist, a chaplain or other religious specialist?•How do you address more spiritual or religious issues with the patient – if at all?