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Table 2 Clinicians' answers coded as concepts and organised into categories. Answers of 27 clinicians to the question "Do you think that it is a problem to decide whether there is a need for treatment in a case like this?" If the physicians admitted that it was a problem, they were then asked "What problems?" Answers were coded as concepts and organised into categories for each patient. Numbers of answers are presented within parentheses. Each clinician may give several answers that could be included in different categories.

From: Clinicians' management strategies for patients with dyspepsia: a qualitative approach

Categories

Concepts

 

Patient 1

Patient 2

Patient 3

Patient 4

There is no problem to decide

(16)

(20)

(19)

(22)

Basis for treatment decision is insufficient

There is no diagnosis (5)

There is no diagnosis (3)

The amount of discomfort is not clear (1)

More examinations are needed (2)

No examination of Helicobacter pylori has been made (3)

Evidence for treatment is poor

There is hardly any evidence for benefits of treatment (1)

It is difficult to treat dyspepsia (1)

Patient suffers, but there is no distinct diagnosis (2)

Psychosomatic problems (2)

Patient suffers, but there is no distinct diagnosis (1)

Recurrent condition (2)

 

Clinician is uncertain of her or his own competence

 

Uncertainty about indication for treatment when Helicobacter pylori serology is positive (1)

Uncertainty about indication for treatment when Helicobacter pylori serology is positive (1)

 

Patient's expectations

Patient wishes treatment (1)

Patient requires treatment due to positive Helicobacter pylori serology (2)

Patient is not motivated to reduce weight (1)

Patient requires treatment due to positive Helicobacter pylori serology (2)