Kooperation zwischen Hausärzt*innen und ambulanten Pflegediensten – eine qualitative Studie

Background Family medicine can be strengthened by networking with other service providers, especially in an aging population. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore attitudes towards cooperation, the role of information exchange and considerations regarding financial reimbursement from different provider perspectives. Methods A qualitative study design was used. Family physicians, their representatives, experienced managers of outpatient nursing services and welfare organizations in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia were interviewed. The focus of the interviews were about attitudes towards cooperation, importance of the exchange of information and appropriate financial reimbursement. The collected data was evaluated using qualitative content analysis. Results 39 people took part in the study. Each of the participants stated that cooperation was important for patient care. More-over, the participants expressed the desire for appreciation and a permanent contact person to provide continuity of patient care. Furthermore, financial reimbursement seems to be important for good cooperation. Family physicians and outpatient nursing services wished an extra payment for the cooperation. Conclusions The stakeholders and those directly involved in care emphasize that cooperation and the mutual exchange of information in the treatment process represent an essential, carerelevant aspect, especially for special patient groups. However, financial reimbursement of cooperation, relevant for patient care remains to be determined.