Patient and Physician Experience with Interhospital Transfer: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Medical quality and safety
• Health services research
• Patient care transitions

Background:

• Interhospital transfer (IHT) is a critical care transition with significant variability.
• Factors influencing the quality and safety of IHT are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of patients and physicians involved in IHT.
• To identify components of the IHT continuum for potential improvement.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing individual interviews.
• Involved transferred patients and various physician groups (transferring, accepting attending, accepting resident).
• Thematic analysis using an inductive approach and a priori framework.

Main Results:

• Shared understanding of transfer reasons (access to specialized care).
• General dissatisfaction with transfer timing and lack of advanced notification.
• Physicians highlighted communication and information exchange issues; patients focused on physical aspects.

Conclusions:

• Patient and physician perspectives offer crucial insights into IHT.
• Identified targets for improving the quality and safety of interhospital transfers.