Support for people with learning disabilities: the role of primary care

A survey of the role of primary care in the support for patients with learning disabilities (PWLD) was undertaken. A search of recent publications in English over the past 10 years identified 30 papers. Of these, only five were published in primary care journals whereas 17 were identified in specialist learning disability journals and eight in nursing and other journals. A review of these papers and 20 other publications confirmed a marked discrepancy between the numerous papers on this subject published in journals unlikely to be read by primary care physicians, and journals with information easily available to primary care clinicians. Over all there were few, high quality, evidence-based papers about the subject. Many articles, however, identified the presence of disproportionately high morbidity in this population of patients and indicated ways of identifying problems and improving management. Support for patients with learning disabilities may be enhanced with better communication, access, registers and regular structured health checks. A lead practitioner, or a General Practitioner with a special interest, allocated protected time and additional training and resources could improve the support that is currently offered.