Negotiating vulnerabilities: how older adults with multiple chronic conditions interact with physicians

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Primary Care Medicine
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Patient-physician interactions are crucial, yet older adults with multiple chronic conditions are underrepresented in research.
• Understanding their unique experiences is vital for improving healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how older adults with multiple morbidities perceive and experience care from their primary care physicians.
• To identify factors contributing to perceived inadequate care and patient strategies.

Main Methods:

• In-depth interviews were conducted with 35 participants (16 men, 19 women) with an average of six chronic conditions.
• Qualitative data analysis focused on participants' perceptions of physician care and their healthcare experiences.

Main Results:

• Participants desired physicians who were thorough, managed referrals effectively, were trustworthy, and respected diverse decision-making styles.
• Many perceived inadequate care due to physician shortcomings, consultation time limits, and ageism.
• Patients, particularly women, developed strategies to optimize care and manage physician perceptions.

Conclusions:

• Elderly patients with multiple chronic conditions frequently report that their health needs are not adequately met.
• Addressing ageism, improving consultation dynamics, and fostering patient-centered decision-making are essential.
• Healthcare systems must better support primary care physicians in managing complex geriatric patients.