The role of the family doctor in the care of single-parent families

Objective: To understand family doctors’ (FD) and family doctor residents' (FDR) perspectives on the health care of single-parent families (SPF). Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using a convenience sample. After validation, an anonymous online questionnaire was distributed to FD and FDR between January and March 2024. Two contextual variables were collected, as well as five questions regarding the views of FD and FDR on “The impact of living in a single-parent family” and seven questions about “The medical practice in the single-parent family”. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. A n=31 representative sample was calculated. Results: For n=47, 88.6%, there was agreement that single parents present poorer mental health, and 81.1%, n=43, expressed the need for more training on SPF, also agreeing that the formation of an SPF is a moment of increased need for medical attention, n=36, 67.9%. FD and FDR, who expressed the need for more training, were more likely to disagree that their medical training was sufficient to provide satisfactory care for SPF, p=0.003. Doctors seemed to know when to refer SPF to other qualified professionals, n=37, 69.8%. Discussion: The small sample size and the different inherent biases of self-reported data studies are to be mentioned. No other Portuguese studies exist on this subject; the fulfilment of the FD’s and FDR’s populational role seems to depend on the skills that are to be learned and practiced in continuous medical knowledge and development. More studies on this topic are needed. Conclusion: FD and FDR consider it important to intervene in the needs of SPF and do not feel fully prepared to provide satisfactory care for these families.