A Qualitative Research on the Reflection of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Primary Healthcare Services and Family Physicians: The Physician-Patient Relationship in Turkey

Background and Aim: This research investigates the reflection of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary healthcare services and family physicians. This study analyzes the challenges faced by family physicians. This research seeks to contribute to the literature on the physician-patient relationship and provide insights for future pandemic preparedness. Material and Method: A qualitative research design was employed to explore physicians’ perspectives on the physician-patient relationship during the COVID-19 outbreak. The study was conducted through interviews with primary healthcare centers (PHCs) and family physicians (FPs) in Antalya, Turkey, between March 10, 2023, and April 11, 2023. The sample consisted of 21 physicians working in primary healthcare centers in Antalya, selected using criterion and snowball sampling methods. Results: These themes were identified as ‘Physician-Patient Interaction,’ ‘Sample Collection and Medication’, and ‘Patient Satisfaction.’ Conclusion: This study reveals the reflections of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary health care and family physicians. The findings show that physician-patient communication has weakened during the pandemic, patient satisfaction has varied, and physicians have faced ethical concerns. In addition, it has been determined that physicians' professional satisfaction has decreased due to increased workload and psychological pressure. The results show that primary health care services should be strengthened and physicians should be supported in similar crisises in the future