Small survey of the state of vitamin D attitudes (uncertainty, etc)
Vitamin D – An Examination of Physician and Patient Management of Health and Uncertainty
Qual Health Res February 20, 2014 1049732314523681
Keisa Bennett 1; Brandy N. Frisby 1; Laura E. Young 1; Deborah Murray 2
1University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
2University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
Keisa Bennett, Department of Family and Community Medicine, K302 Kentucky Clinic, 740 S Limestone, Lexington, KY 40536, USA. Email: keisa.bennett@uky.edu
Vitamin D has been a topic of much research interest and controversy, and evidence is mixed concerning its preventive effects and health benefits. The purpose of our study was to explore the decision-making strategies used by both primary care providers and community members surrounding vitamin D in relation to uncertainty management theory. We conducted semistructured interviews with primary care providers (n = 7) and focus groups with community members (n = 89), and transcribed and coded using the constant comparative method.
Themes for providers included
awareness,
uncertainty,
patient role,
responsibility,
skepticism,
uncertainty management, and
evolving perceptions.
Community member focus group themes included
uncertainty,
information sources,
awareness/knowledge,
barriers, and
patient–provider relationship.
Both providers and community members expressed uncertainty about vitamin D but used conflicting strategies to manage uncertainty.
Awareness of this disconnect might facilitate improved patient–provider communication.