Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

This study aimed to explore the accident prevention activities of primary care organizations (PCOs) and the views of their board members regarding accident prevention. Qualitative study using semi-structured telephone interviews of 17 board members of PCOs (primary care groups and primary care trusts) in the National Health Service (NHS) Trent Region was undertaken. Accident prevention activity varied substantially between PCOs. The reduction of home hazards was a frequent focus of the PCOs’ accident prevention initiatives. Board members did not see accident prevention as their biggest priority in health improvement, although they had positive attitudes towards it. Local morbidity and NHS guidance were seen to be key determinants of PCOs’ priorities in health promotion. There was little reference to any strategic planning for accident prevention. Information to support accident prevention could be more timely and relevant to PCOs’ needs. The degree of involvement with outside agencies in accident prevention work varied substantially. Collaboration between agencies may be held back by mutual lack of knowledge and differences in culture and priorities. It was concluded that accident prevention appears to be receiving less attention in PCOs than other national health priorities. They may need more support for developing strategies for accident prevention and better provision of information so that they can identify local problems which can be addressed by preventative activities. The accident prevention plans contained in health improvement programmes should be monitored. © 2004, Arnold. All rights reserved.

Original publication

DOI

10.1191/1463423604pc182oa

Type

Journal article

Journal

Primary Health Care Research and Development

Publication Date

01/01/2004

Volume

5

Pages

135 - 144