Background
This article identifies the roles that
gay men with depression ascribe to
their chosen general practitioner and
considers how they might influence
the dynamics of clinical interactions
between gay men and their doctors.
Discussion
Gay men who have ongoing contact
with their GP may expect them to
intuitively understand which roles are
expected and appropriate to perform
in each consultation and over time.
General practitioners should consider
these changing roles, and take them
into account (as appropriate) to achieve
open and trusting relationships in the
care of their gay male patients.
Results
Five distinct roles were identified: GP as
trusted confidant, gentle guide, provider
of services, effective conduit, and
community peer.
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