Table 3 Themes from thematic analysis

Theme 1: Adaptation to the personal world of patients

 1. 1. Listening to fears and concerns

 1. 2. Validating emotions and perceptions

 1. 3. Shared understanding of symptoms

 1. 4. Communicating ‘lack of knowledge’ and referral

Theme 2: Adaptation to cultural differences

 2. 1. Culturally sensitive doctor–patient relationship

 2. 2. Openness without fear

 2. 3. Culture-specific meanings of symptoms

 2. 4. Interculturalism in education

Theme 3: Need for interprofessional coordination

 3. 1. Need for consensus view on MUS

 3. 2. Coordination between the physical and mental health professionals

 3. 3. Need for MUS-specific protocols

 3. 4. Coordination in education