The impact of professional characteristics and person-centred care on general practitioners' stress levels. Findings from the cross-sectional PACE GP/FP study in 24 European countries.

backgroundGeneral practitioners (GPs) face numerous challenges that can contribute to stress. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing interventions to support physician wellbeing and maintain high-quality care.

objectivesThe study aims to explore the factors associated with perceived stress among European GPs, including attitudes towards person-centred care (PCC), demographics, and professional characteristics.

methodsThe PACE GP/FP study is an online, cross-sectional, multi-centred survey conducted in 24 European countries between November 2022 and January 2024. The survey tool included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Patient-Practitioner Orientation Scale (PPOS), and questions on GPs' demographics and practice characteristics. Linear mixed models analysed the relationship between these variables and perceived stress.

resultsIn total, 3522 GPs were included in the analysis. The mean PSS score indicated moderate levels of stress. Female gender and younger age were associated with increased stress. Also, a higher number of daily patient contacts and a greater perceived responsibility for vulnerable patient populations (e.g. migrants, those with limited social support, or psychiatric vulnerabilities) were significantly associated with higher stress. A stronger patient-centred orientation was associated with lower perceived stress.

conclusionThe findings have implications for interventions to reduce GP stress, such as training programs promoting PCC, optimising patient contact rates, and providing targeted support for GPs caring for vulnerable patients. Further research is needed to explore these factors' complex interplay and impact on GP wellbeing.