Knowing me, knowing you: A qualitative study of the effects on patients of doctors' self-illness disclosures

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Very little is known how patients react to learning about their own doctors' illnesses. Doctors can be uncertain if and when such disclosures can be helpful, and in what way, to patients. This paper attempts to bridge this gap by providing an in-depth analysis of one group of patients' experiences with this type of disclosure. AIM: To understand from patients' perspectives, the effects on them of doctors disclosing their own illnesses, to provide guidance concerning the uses of this disclosure for general practitioners. METHODS: This qualitative study was an exploration of 13 patients' reactions to receiving such information, using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis. RESULTS: The major themes were the emotional dimensions of illness and patienthood, the doctor-patient relationship and patients' concerns about disclosures. Disclosures can have profound effects on patients with both negative and positive consequences. CONCLUSION: We present suggestions about how to use such disclosures in primary care to minimise potential harms and emphasise potential benefits, based on these patients' perspectives and the current literature.