Navigating outpatient care of patients with type 2 diabetes after hospital discharge - a qualitative longitudinal study.
BMC Health Serv Res
; 24(1): 476, 2024 Apr 17.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38632612
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
The transition from hospital to outpatient care is a particularly vulnerable period for patients as they move from regular health monitoring to self-management. This study aimed to map and investigate the journey of patients with polymorbidities, including type 2 diabetes (T2D), in the 2 months following hospital discharge and examine patients' encounters with healthcare professionals (HCPs).METHODS:
Patients discharged with T2D and at least two other comorbidities were recruited during hospitalization. This qualitative longitudinal study consisted of four semi-structured interviews per participant conducted from discharge up to 2 months after discharge. The interviews were based on a guide, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed. Patient journeys through the healthcare system were represented using the patient journey mapping methodology.RESULTS:
Seventy-five interviews with 21 participants were conducted from October 2020 to July 2021. The participants had a median of 11 encounters (min-max 6-28) with HCPs. The patient journey was categorized into six keysteps:
hospitalization, discharge, dispensing prescribed medications by the community pharmacist, follow-up calls, the first medical appointment, and outpatient care.CONCLUSIONS:
The outpatient journey in the 2 months following discharge is a complex and adaptive process. Despite the active role of numerous HCPs, navigation in outpatient care after discharge relies heavily on the involvement and responsibilities of patients. Preparation for discharge, post-hospitalization follow-up, and the first visit to the pharmacy and general practitioner are key moments for carefully considering patient care. Our findings underline the need for clarified roles and a standardized approach to discharge planning and post-discharge care in partnership with patients, family caregivers, and all stakeholders involved.Key words
Full text:
1
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Patient Discharge
/
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
Limits:
Humans
Language:
En
Journal:
BMC Health Serv Res
Journal subject:
PESQUISA EM SERVICOS DE SAUDE
Year:
2024
Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Switzerland