The role of primary care in mesothelioma

This chapter provides insight into how people affected by mesothelioma experience primary care. The UK National Health Service (NHS) context is predominantly discussed, though international background is considered where relevant. Primary care and its components are defined. Changes within primary care over recent decades are reflected upon, relating specifically to their impact on the mesothelioma community. The role of the general practitioner (GP) and other primary care clinicians in caring for people with mesothelioma is highlighted. Potential knowledge gaps and training needs among such healthcare professionals are identified.

The evidence base focusing on primary care provision for people with mesothelioma is scarce. Given the dynamic landscape of UK NHS primary care over recent years, the lived experience among people with mesothelioma is essential to guide service delivery.

Primary care clinicians must keep up to date with mesothelioma despite not encountering it frequently. People living with mesothelioma, and those supporting them, often develop considerable knowledge about this rare condition. The GP is no longer automatically at the centre of a patient's primary care experience as was the “family doctor”. Understanding of the primary care workforce structure is essential so that roles are defined adequately to provide patients with individualised, appropriate care.