“I Have Such a Great Care” – Geriatric Patients’ Experiences with a New Healthcare Model: A Qualitative Study

Denise Wilfling*, Nicole Warkentin, Sonja Laag, Katja Goetz

*Corresponding author for this work

Abstract

Purpose: Coordinated care is important for the health and well-being of geriatric patients. However, continuity of care is lacking in many countries. Several studies have shown that case management can help to meet these requirements in health care and investigated positive effects. The project RubiN (Regional ununterbrochen betreut im Netz; Continuous care in a regional network) was developed to provide regional care-and case management for outpatient care of the elderly (age >70 years) in a primary care setting. The aim of this qualitative approach was to explore experiences and attitudes of geriatric patients towards the newly developed complex care-and case-management intervention RubiN. Patients and Methods: Qualitative interviews with a purposive sample of geriatric patients enlisted in the RubiN intervention networks were conducted. The collected data was tran-scribed and evaluated using qualitative content analysis. A deductive-inductive approach was used in generating thematic categories. Results: Forty-four telephone interviews were performed. Two key categories were identified to describe patients’ experiences regarding care delivered by a care-and case manager (CCM), namely “role of CCM” and “changes through RubiN”. Results demonstrated that care performed by CCMs is perceived positively by geriatric patients. A main finding of this study was that geriatric patients experienced a sense of security through the care provided by CCMs. CCMs were perceived as highly competent people, having all the necessary skills to provide continuity of care. Conclusion: This study illustrates the importance of trust between care provider and care recipient. It also shows that geriatric patients appreciate the continuous, professional care and structural and functional support provided by qualified CCMs.

Original languageEnglish
JournalPatient Preference and Adherence
Volume15
Pages (from-to)309-315
Number of pages7
ISSN1177-889X
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Research Areas and Centers

  • Research Area: Center for Population Medicine and Public Health (ZBV)

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