Citizens' perspectives on relocating healthcare.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Public Health Policy
• Patient-Centered Care

Background:

• Global healthcare systems face rising demands and costs with a shrinking workforce, necessitating innovative solutions.
• Healthcare relocation, moving services from institutions to community settings, is explored as a cost-saving and workforce-shortage mitigation strategy.
• Understanding citizen perspectives on healthcare relocation is crucial for successful implementation, yet remains under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate citizens' perspectives on the relocation of healthcare services.
• To identify key factors influencing public acceptance of community-based healthcare delivery.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to 1,500 members of Nivel's Dutch Healthcare Consumer Panel, with 796 responses.
• Two citizen platforms were conducted with 23 participants to gather qualitative insights.

Main Results:

• Citizens prioritize healthcare provider expertise and familiarity when receiving care.
• Less complex care is preferred closer to home, particularly with a general practitioner possessing the necessary expertise.
• Willingness exists to shift care to general practitioners or towards self-care, contingent on clear guidance and provider competence.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare relocation is a viable strategy for future healthcare sustainability from a citizen viewpoint.
• Successful relocation hinges on meeting specific citizen conditions, primarily ensuring provider expertise and clear pathways for care and self-management.