Somatoform disorders are a relatively under-researched topic in Slovenia, yet they are commonly encountered by family doctors, who are often the first and sometimes the only point of contact for patients with persistent physical symptoms lacking a clear medical explanation. In this master’s thesis, I explored how general practitioners recognize and manage patients with somatoform symptoms, how they understand their professional role in treating this group, what challenges they face, and what they might need for more effective care. I conducted a qualitative study involving eleven interviews with family physicians of varying experience from different regions of Slovenia. Thematic analysis revealed that such patients are frequently seen in general practice, although physicians rarely label the symptoms as somatoform, preferring alternative or descriptive terms. Nevertheless, they generally interpret them as expressions of complex biopsychosocial backgrounds. Their role is perceived as broader than merely ruling out somatic disease, as they also recognize advisory and supportive responsibilities. Doctors often devote more time to these patients, primarily to explore their wider psychosocial context. They rely heavily on experience and intuition, while reporting a lack of concrete knowledge, guidelines, and training. They usually offer basic advice but often find that patients need more, particularly psychological or psychotherapeutic support, which is poorly accessible in Slovenia. They are especially aware of the importance of a strong doctor–patient relationship and sensitive communication, aiming to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and taken seriously. At the same time, they often find such care emotionally demanding and challenging, especially when lacking the time or tools to respond adequately. Physicians emphasize the need for additional training and point to the importance of stronger, more structured collaboration across different levels of healthcare.
|
