General practitioners’ perceptions of interprofessional collaboration in Belgium: a qualitative study

Abstract
Background Belgian primary care is facing significant challenges due to increasing healthcare demands and an over-
all decline in the workforce. Most general practitioners (GPs) work solo or in mono-disciplinary practices, leading
to suboptimal outcomes in areas such as preventive care and health promotion.
In response, the Ministry of Health introduced a “New-Deal” for GPs, which includes additional funding to support
innovative practice organisation models. A think tank of GP representatives was established to guide the initiative,
with input from practising GPs gathered for further insight.
This study aims to identify the professionals needed to support GPs in daily practice, define their roles, and explore
the conditions necessary for integrating them into the GP-centred model of care.
Methods Eleven focus groups were conducted with 122 GPs, ensuring geographical and linguistic diversity
across Belgium. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure a diverse range of organisational
models across the country. A structured focus group guide was designed, incorporating three scenarios to exam-
ine tasks commonly encountered in GP practices. Data analysis was conducted using a codebook developed
through an inductive approach.
Results GPs expressed a preference for relatively small-scale teams, generally consisting of nurses and reception-
ists. The role of a practice assistant was more ambiguously defined, positioned between clinical and administra-
tive responsibilities. Key tools for effective team integration included co-location, well-defined protocols, a shared
electronic health record, care coordination, and unified logistical management, all of which are critical to fostering
multidisciplinary collaboration.
Conclusions This study explores Belgian GPs’ preferences for integrating healthcare professionals into their prac-
tices, with team composition adjusted to workload and patient needs. However, the traditional autonomy of practice
design may hinder change. Future research is needed to refine financial models and integration tools for collaborative
care.