Building COPD care on shaky ground: a mixed methods study from Swedish primary care professional perspective

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Management
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant public health concern.
• Evidence-based guidelines recommend interprofessional collaboration and health promotion interventions for COPD management.
• A notable disparity exists between recommended COPD care guidelines and actual primary care services provided.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the factors influencing primary care service provision for individuals with COPD.
• To understand the healthcare services offered to COPD patients from the perspective of healthcare professionals and managers.

Main Methods:

• A qualitatively driven mixed-methods design was employed in Swedish primary care settings.
• Qualitative data were gathered through interviews with 14 healthcare professionals.
• Quantitative data were collected via questionnaires from 26 managers/COPD nurses and 18 healthcare professionals, analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Main Results:

• The overarching theme identified was "building COPD care on shaky ground," reflecting fragmented and non-compliant healthcare organization.
• Healthcare professionals expressed a desire for high-quality COPD care but faced challenges including lack of competence, inadequate routines, and insufficient resources.
• Patient factors, such as lack of information and the stigma associated with COPD, further complicated care delivery.

Conclusions:

• A significant gap persists between established COPD treatment guidelines and the primary care services delivered.
• Implementing guidelines effectively necessitates enhanced professional training, increased resource allocation, and improved organizational structures.
• Strengthening interprofessional collaboration and patient education are crucial for bridging the gap in COPD care.