Opinions and Experiences of Primary Healthcare Providers Regarding Violence against Women: a Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies

AIZENBERG, L; RICCI-CABELLO, I.; SALETTI CUESTA, L.

Journal of Family Violence

Springer

Lugar: Berlin; Año: 2018 vol. 33 p. 1 - 16

0885-7482

The aim of this systematic review of qualitative studies is to explore the opinions and experiences of primary care providersregarding violence against women. Structured searches were conducted in nine bibliographic databases (March 2016). Studyidentification, critical appraisal (using the CASP tool), and analyses (thematic synthesis) were conducted. 46 qualitative studieswere selected. Three main themes were identified: 1) Defining violence against women and its causes; 2) Awareness of violenceagainst women and disclosure, with subthemes: 2.1.) Barriers experienced by primary care providers; 2.2) Facilitators forproviding appropriate help; 3) Actions taken by providers to help women. Violence against women was generally consideredas an unacceptable act with important health consequences. Barriers to address violence against women included organizationalfactors, providers? subjective feelings and perceived role, and providers? perceptions about women facing violence againstwomen. Facilitators included a trusting relationship with women, attentive non-judgmental listening, participate in the community, team-work and continuing education. Providing emotional support and offering information about resources were the mainactions taken by primary care providers. Women-centred care, respecting women?s decision making processes and abiopsychosocial approach may provide direction to more compassionate and supportive care while strengthening primaryhealthcare response.