Table 1 Interview vignette and guide

Vignette: The following description was provided to GPs at the start of interview:

“The type of patient with knee pain I’m interested in discussing is a middle-aged (in their late 40’s or 50’s) person, who consults with knee pain, which is ongoing for a few weeks, aggravated by weight bearing activities and importantly they have no history of significant trauma. Pain is localised to the medial aspect of the joint and they may also report some accompanying clicking and intermittent locking sensations. From your history/exam you are not thinking this person has osteoarthritis but considering meniscal pathology or a ‘cartilage’ problem. Different approaches can be taken with this type of presentation, but I am interested in your insights and your experiences in helping patients with this type of knee complaint.”

1. Can you tell me about your approach to assessment here and any key pieces of information you are looking for?

2. Can you describe your approach to managing patients with this type of knee pain?

3. Can you talk to me about what informs your management of patients with degenerative meniscal tears or early degenerative changes?

4. Could you describe any onward referral and any factors influencing your decision making around this patient?

5. Can you describe any particular challenges you’ve encountered when managing these patients?

6. What if anything would make your job easier when caring for these patients?