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

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Scleroderma is a complex autoimmune disease requiring integrated, multidisciplinary care.
• Current healthcare systems face challenges in implementing comprehensive scleroderma care.
• Gaps in multidisoderma care delivery hinder effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore existing gaps in the implementation of multidisciplinary care for individuals with scleroderma.
• To identify barriers and facilitators in delivering integrated care for scleroderma patients.
• To understand the perspectives of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers on scleroderma care.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews.
• Conventional content analysis based on Graneheim and Lundman's approach.
• Data collected from 40 participants (scleroderma patients, family caregivers, healthcare providers) in southwestern Iran.

Main Results:

• Five main themes emerged: Siloed Care, Incomplete Care Continuum, Stagnation in Team-Based Approach, Lack of Capacity Building, and Disruption of Supportive Infrastructure.
• Findings indicate a fragmented and uncoordinated current care system for scleroderma.
• Significant barriers identified in team-based approaches and supportive infrastructure.

Conclusions:

• The current scleroderma care system is fragmented, necessitating improved multidisciplinary approaches.
• Key prerequisites for enhanced care include structural reform and specialized centers.
• Integrated multidisciplinary teams and digital infrastructure are crucial for improving scleroderma patient outcomes.