Medically unexplained physical symptoms: the feasibility of group cognitive-behavioural therapy in primary care

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the number of patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) that could be eligible for group cognitive-behavioural treatment (CBT) and to assess the acceptability of this treatment.

Methods: For 3 months, all consultations of one general practitioner (GP) were screened for MUPS. Patients with MUPS who were considered eligible for group CBT were interviewed and offered treatment.

Results: From January to March 1999, 1084 consultations of 796 patients were screened. The GP classified the symptoms of 104 patients aged 25-79 as unexplained. Of these, 71 patients were not considered to be eligible for treatment, mainly due to a psychological attribution of the symptoms. The research interview was offered to 33 patients, 16 of them declined and 12 were interviewed. Seven out of the 12 eligible patients accepted treatment.

Conclusion: In primary care, 18% of patients aged 25-79 years was estimated to have MUPS. For only a minority of these patients, group CBT was considered suitable and acceptable.