1 research outputs found
Seeking support after hospitalisation for injury: a nested qualitative study of the role of primary care
Background
In the UK, studies suggest that the transition from hospital to home after an injury can be a difficult time and many patients report feeling inadequately prepared. Patients often use primary care services after hospital discharge. These consultations provide opportunities to
consider problems that patients experience and to facilitate recovery. Little is known, however, about how patients and service providers view care after hospital discharge and the role played by primary care services, specifically GPs.
Aim
To identify good practice and unmet needs in
respect of post-discharge support for injured
patients.
Design and setting
Qualitative study using semi-structured
interviews at four sites (Bristol, Leicester/
Loughborough, Nottingham, and Surrey).
Method
Qualitative interviews with 40 service providers and 45 hospitalised injured patients.
Results
Although there were examples of wellmanaged
hospital discharges, many patients felt they were not provided with the information they needed about their injury, what to expect in
terms of recovery, pain control, return to work, psychological problems, and services to help meet their needs. They also described difficulty accessing services such as physiotherapy or counselling. Service providers identified problems with communication between secondary and primary care, lack of access to physiotherapy, poor communication about other services that may help patients, GP service and resource constraints, and difficulties in providing information to patients concerning likely prognosis.
Conclusion
Discharge from hospital after an injury can
be problematic for patients. Changes in both
secondary and primary care are required to
resolve this problem