Table 5 Practitioners themes and direct quotes of specific elements within the booklet (n = 32)

Good and clear content, easy to use

‘A Clear and compact reference material supports the information given at a GP appointment’(GP7)

Busy practice and remembering to use the booklet

‘The Lack of time and haste hindered [the application of the booklet] substantially; if a suitable patient was present, then the booklet was not at hand…’(GP12)

Comprehensive explanation of common issues

‘The booklet in whole is practical, flow charts are clear, not too much information’(P19)

Imaging issues

‘Indications for imaging and that asymptomatic people have similar findings’(P27)

Encourage to self-care

‘ Encouragement towards self-care, endorsement of the general message.’(P28)

Blocks for management plan

‘ Boxes in the management plan?’(P31)

Good explanation

‘That I have facts to tell patients about imaging and its necessity’(P26)

The Booklet

‘The discussion at the GP appointment is supported by the general message of the booklet.’(P28)

Patient’s beliefs and wish for getting the reason for pain

‘The patient has a strong belief, that imaging is needed’(GP5)

The booklet was helpful and decreased need for imaging

‘Often the need of imaging decreased and the booklet supported realization of the rehabilitation plan’(P18)

The booklet did not have effect on imaging plan

‘Hardly.’(P13)