How Do Health Care Professionals Perceive a Holistic Care Approach for Geriatric Patients? A Focus Group Study

Denise Wilfling, Jona Budke, Nicole Warkentin and Katja Goetz ()
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Denise Wilfling: Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
Jona Budke: Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
Nicole Warkentin: Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
Katja Goetz: Institute of Family Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany

IJERPH, 2023, vol. 20, issue 2, 1-11

Abstract: Background: Geriatric patients require holistic care in order to meet their complex care needs. The project RubiN (Continuous Care in a Regional Network) provides case and care management (CCM) for older people to address these needs in a primary care setting in Germany. This study aimed to explore the experiences of health care professionals who provided CCM for geriatric patients. Methods: Focus group interviews with general practitioners (GPs), health care assistants (HCAs), and case managers (CMs) were conducted. Transcribed data were analyzed by using qualitative content analysis. Results: Ten focus group discussions ( n = 15 GPs, n = 14 HCAs, n = 17 CMs) were conducted. The different health care professionals emphasized the importance of a holistic care approach to geriatric care. Moreover, the GPs stated that the CMs supported the patients in organizing their care. A CCM could help encourage patients to remain at their own homes, which would have an effect on patients’ quality of life and satisfaction. Conclusion: A well-functioning and effective cooperation between those health professionals involved is a prerequisite for a trustful relationship in the holistic care of older people. This creates a feeling of security for all people involved in the care process.

Keywords: geriatric patients; care and case management; holistic care; qualitative study (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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