Hyperlipidaemia in primary care: management challenges for GPs and patients

Abstract

Objectives: This project aims to assess the management of patients with hyperlipidaemia in a General Practitioner (GP) setting. The project will evaluate current care practices, identify gaps in care, and explore barriers to delivering patient care.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving a retrospective review of patient data and an interview with the clinic GPs. The project was conducted at Woodview Family Doctors clinic, in Glanmire, Co. Cork, Ireland. The study included 70 patients aged 50-55 years with a diagnosis of hyperlipidaemia, identified through elevated lipid panel results (LDL-C >= 4 mmol/L). Participants were randomly selected from the patient lists of seven GPs at the clinic, 10 patients each. The study primarily assessed patient health and care as determined by relevant factors including total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides, smoking and drinking status, BMI, adverse cardiovascular events, and referral to dietician or cardiologist. Secondary outcomes explored via interviewing the clinic GPs were barriers to delivering optimal patient care.

Results: The baseline data was assessed in regard to the number of patients with Max LDL > 2.6 mmol/L, Max Chol > 5.17 mmol/L, and BMI > 25, which were present in over 27% of males and females. All other risk factors were found to be present or above advisable levels in less than 27%. The interview with GPs also revealed significant barriers to effective hyperlipidaemia management, including limited consultation time, patient non-compliance, and resource constraints. A review of literature showed that statin therapy was questionable in efficacy.

Conclusion: This study highlighted substantial challenges in managing hyperlipidaemia in a GP setting. Despite adherence to guidelines, practical barriers hinder optimal care. Future initiatives should focus on addressing these barriers through targeted and personalized interventions and measuring long-term outcomes through follow-up