Multidisciplinary Care Is a Missing Link in Managing People With Scleroderma: A Qualitative Study

Scleroderma is a complex autoimmune disease with multifaceted involvement, the management of which requires integrated, multidisciplinary care. However, despite its importance, implementing such care faces several challenges within healthcare systems. Accordingly, this study was conducted to explore existing gaps in the implementation of multidisciplinary care for people with scleroderma. This qualitative study used purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews, analyzed through conventional content analysis based on Graneheim and Lundman's approach. The data collection process was conducted in the rheumatology department and rheumatology clinics/outpatient in southwestern Iran. A total of 40 participants took part in the study, including people with scleroderma, family caregivers, and healthcare providers. Five main themes and sixteen subthemes emerged: Siloed Care, Incomplete Care Continuum, Stagnation in Team-Based Approach, Lack of Capacity Building, and Disruption of Supportive Infrastructure. The findings reveal that the current care system is fragmented and uncoordinated, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary care in service delivery. Based on the results, key prerequisites for improving the coherence and quality of care include structural reform, specialized care centers, integrated multidisciplinary teams, and digital infrastructure.