Thus far, no study has systematically synthesized longitudinal studies investigating the determinants of frequent attendance in primary care. Consequently, the purpose of our systematic review is to give an overview of evidence based on longitudinal observational studies analyzing the determinants of frequent attendance. Three electronic databases (Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL) will be searched. Moreover, the reference lists of studies included in our systematic review will be searched manually. Longitudinal observational studies examining the determinants of frequent attendance in primary care will be included. Disease-specific samples will be excluded. Data extraction focuses on methods (e.g., measurement of frequent attendance, statistical analysis), characteristics of the sample and key results. Furthermore, the quality of the studies included will be examined using an appropriate tool. Two reviewers will perform study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. A meta-analysis will be conducted (if possible).
Keywords: GP; frequent attendance; general practitioner; heavy user; high utilization; longitudinal study; primary care; systematic review.