RESUMO
RATIONALE, AIM, AND OBJECTIVES: More knowledge is needed regarding the complex factors and perceptions that enable the implementation of change in health care. The study aimed to examine the enabling factors and barriers encountered in the implementation of improvements in health care in order to achieve patient-centred care (PCC) and to study if there was a correlation in the extent the improvements were perceived to be implemented and the preconditions that were considered to affect them. METHODS: Using a mixed method design, data were gathered via a questionnaire and individual interviews with health care personnel, clinic managers, and first-line managers. The data collection and analyses were based on the framework for Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARiHS). Correlations between PCC improvements and preconditions for improvements were performed. RESULTS: A high level of involvement, knowledge, and adequate resources were considered important to achieve an implementation of PCC with joint responsibility. Leadership and management need to be explicit and promote continuous follow-up and feedback. Preconditions for improvement had a linear correlation with the perceived level of implementation. Knowledge-related preconditions had greatest impact on implementation. CONCLUSIONS: The PARiHS framework was appropriate to use since the three components of evidence, context, and facilitation present different important preconditions in the implementation process. Evidence was the highest rated contributor since evidence-based practices in health care are necessary. It is vital that the important role of the context and facilitators is acknowledged in the implementation process to enable a successful implementation of change. There is a need to incorporate a clear strategy involving all levels in the organization. Furthermore, leaders play an important role in the implementation by facilitating communication and support and by having trust in facilitators and health care personnel. The results are applicable to other interventions implementing change in health care.