Thesis Format
Monograph
Degree
Master of Clinical Science
Program
Family Medicine
Supervisor
Brown, Judith B
2nd Supervisor
Piccinini-Vallis, Helena
Affiliation
Dalhousie University
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
To investigate how medical education, residency training, and systemic and sociocultural factors influence the process of care of Brazilian family physicians when managing women with elevated cardiovascular risk.
METHODS
A qualitative study employing Constructivist Grounded Theory methodology was conducted. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 15 Brazilian family physicians from diverse professional and regional backgrounds. Data collection and analysis were iterative, focusing on emergent themes.
FINDINGS
The analysis revealed the following main themes: shifting from the biomedical model to the patient-centered approach during medical training; recognizing women caregiver overload; integrating clinical care and the social context to provide patient-centered care; and influencing care through physician gender.
CONCLUSION
This study emphasized the need for enhanced training in gender-sensitive and patient-centered care approaches. Addressing these gaps can improve equity and outcomes for women with elevated cardiovascular risk in Brazil's primary care setting.
Summary for Lay Audience
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women worldwide, yet it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, partly due to educational and research gaps. This study examines how medical education, residency training, and social contexts influence family physicians' approaches to managing women with elevated cardiovascular risk.
Through interviews with 15 family physicians, the study highlights significant findings. During medical training, participants reported a transformation in their approach to caring in medical school and in residency, highlighting the opportunity to shift towards a patient-centered approach during residency in family medicine. Many participants lacked formal training on gender-specific cardiovascular risk factors, such as those linked to pregnancy. Participants also recognized the challenges women face in prioritizing their health while juggling caregiving roles. Additionally, the study revealed that physician gender may influence patient interactions, with both male and female physicians noting its impact on trust and communication.
This research underscores the importance of improving medical training to address gender-specific health needs and adapting healthcare practices to ensure equitable cardiovascular care for women in Brazil.
Recommended Citation
Oliveira, Aline de Souza, "Exploring the Process of Care for Women with Elevated Cardiovascular Risk by Brazilian Family Physicians" (2025). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10707.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10707
