Healthcare providers' perception of caring for older patients with depression and physical multimorbidity: insights from a focus group study.

Publisher: BioMed Central Ltd Country of Publication: England NLM ID: 9918300889006676 Publication Model: Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 2731-4553 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 27314553 NLM ISO Abbreviation: BMC Prim Care Subsets: MEDLINE

Original Publication: [London] : BioMed Central Ltd., [2022]-

Focus Groups* ; Multimorbidity* ; Attitude of Health Personnel* ; Depression*/therapy ; Depression*/epidemiology ; Depression*/psychology ; Health Personnel*/psychology; Humans ; Female ; Male ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; Patient-Centered Care ; Adult ; Grounded Theory ; Qualitative Research ; Decision Making, Shared

Background: The caretaking process for older adults with depression and physical multimorbidity is complex. Older patients with both psychiatric and physical illnesses require an integrated and comprehensive approach to effectively manage their care. This approach should address common risk factors, acknowledge the bidirectional relationship between somatic and mental health conditions, and integrate treatment strategies for both aspects. Furthermore, active engagement of healthcare providers in shaping new care processes is imperative for achieving sustainable change.
Objective: To explore and understand the needs and expectations of healthcare providers (HCPs) concerning the care for older patients with depression and physical multimorbidity.
Methods: Seventeen HCPs who work with the target group in primary and residential care participated in three focus group interviews. A constructivist Grounded Theory approach was applied. The results were analyzed using the QUAGOL guide.
Results: Participants highlighted the importance of patient-centeredness, interprofessional collaboration, and shared decision-making in current healthcare practices. There is also a need to further emphasize the advantages and risks of technology in delivering care. Additionally, HCPs working with this target population should possess expertise in both psychiatric and somatic care to provide comprehensive care. Care should be organized proactively, anticipating needs rather than reacting to them. Healthcare providers, including a dedicated care manager, might consider collaborating, integrating their expertise instead of operating in isolation. Lastly, effective communication among HCPs, patients, and their families is crucial to ensure high-quality care delivery.
Conclusion: The findings stress the importance of a comprehensive approach to caring for older adults dealing with depression and physical comorbidity. These insights will fuel the development of an integrated care model that caters to the needs of this population.
(© 2024. The Author(s).)

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C26M/22/002 KU Leuven; C26M/22/002 KU Leuven

Keywords: Collaborative care; Depressive disorder; Multidisciplinary teams; Multimorbidity; Older adults

Date Created: 20240621 Date Completed: 20240621 Latest Revision: 20240624

20240624

PMC11193270

10.1186/s12875-024-02447-9

38907355