Gastroscopy for dyspepsia: Understanding primary care and gastroenterologist mental models of practice: A cognitive task analysis approach

Abstract Background Gastroscopy to investigate dyspepsia without alarm symptoms rarely results in clinically actionable findings or sustained health-related quality-of-life improvements among patients aged 18–60 years and is, therefore, not recommended. Despite this, referrals for performance of gastroscopy this patient population remain high. The purpose study was understand family physicians’ gastroenterologists’ mental models the drivers behind referring performing gastroscopy. Methods Cognitive task analysis routine critical decision method interviews with physicians (n = 8) gastroenterologists 4). Results Family hold rich that rely on sensemaking; however, gaps information continuity affect their ability plan coordinate care. Drivers decisions refer perform were: eliminating risk serious pathology, providing reassurance, perceived preference by receive reassurance from gastroenterologists, maintaining relationships patients, saving costs health system. Conclusions when they are seeking support believe alternative factors may be impacting patient’s view it as a cost-saving measure. Likewise, perceive measure, want primary care colleagues provide reassurance. An improved degree communication between speciality could allow transfer about reduce dyspepsia.