چکیده (انگلیسی):

Background:Several studies have been performed to understand the way family physicians apply knowledge from
medical research in practice. However, very little is known concerning family physicians in Switzerland. In an environment
in which information constantly accumulates, it is crucial to identify the major sources of scientific information that are
used by family physicians to keep their medical knowledge up to date and barriers to use these sources. Our
main objective was to examine medical knowledge translation (KT) practices of Swiss family physicians.
Methods:The population consisted of French- and German-speaking private practice physicians specialised in
family medicine. We conducted four interviews and three focus groups (n= 25). The interview guides of the
semi-structured interviews and focus groups focused on (a) ways and means used by physicians to keep updated with
information relevant to clinical practice; (b) how they consider their role in translating knowledge into practice;
(c) potential barriers to KT; (d) solutions proposed by physicians for effective KT.
Results:Family physicians find themselves rather ambivalent about the translation of knowledge based on scientific
literature, but generally express much interest in KT. They often feel overwhelmed by “information floods”and perceive
clinical practice guidelines and other supports to be of limited usefulness for their practice. They often combine various
formal and informal information sources to keep their knowledge up to date. Swiss family physicians report considering
themselves as artisans, caring for patients with complex needs.
Conclusion:Improved performance of KT initiatives in family medicine should be tailored to actual needs and based on
high quality evidence-based sources.