Patient Experiences of Hospital Care in the Context of Comprehensive Care Delivery: A Mixed Method Study

Abstract

Aims

To explore the care experiences of patients with chronic conditions in hospitals and identify areas for improvement in the context of comprehensive care delivery.

Design

A sequential explanatory mixed-method study.

Methods

The study includes a cross-sectional survey (n = 311) and semi-structured interviews (n = 43) with patients with chronic conditions who attended an Australian hospital. Quantitative data were analysed using RStudio and presented using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Survey responses were categorised into themes aligned with interview findings and qualitative insights were used to contextualise and explain quantitative results.

Results

Overall, the care experience of patients with chronic conditions in hospitals was positive, but there was room for improvement. Ten themes were identified where improvement was needed, including patient inclusion in shared decision-making, patients' needs and care coordination.

Conclusion

Various gaps in care were identified that affected patients' hospital experiences. Many of these gaps are amenable to change, highlighting significant opportunities for improving patient hospital experiences.

Implications

Healthcare professionals should make more efforts to involve patients in shared decision-making, work collaboratively, address both the medical and psychological needs of patients and provide them with guidance and information.

Impact

The findings revealed the patient's hospital experiences in the context of comprehensive care delivery and identified areas requiring improvement.

Reporting Method

The CROSS and The COREQ guidelines were followed.

Patient or Public Contribution

The study protocol was presented to stakeholders from two hospitals in Australia, a Patient and Carer Advisory Board and the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, and discussions were held to assess the relevance and significance of this study to clinical practice and health policy.

What Does This Paper Contribute?

This research offers valuable feedback on patients' care experiences in hospital settings following the implementation of the national Comprehensive Care Standard, providing insights into gaps in care and informing global efforts to enhance patient-centred comprehensive care.