Research & theory
Care transitions for older patients with musculoskeletal disorders: continuity from the providers’ perspective
Authors:
Jordache McLeod,
About Jordache
MSc, Department of Health Studies and Gerontology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue East, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1.
Josephine McMurray,
About Josephine
PhD (ABD), Department of Health Studies and Gerontology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue East, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1.
Jennifer D. Walker,
About Jennifer D.
PhD, Department of Health Studies and Gerontology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue East, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
George A. Heckman,
About George A.
MD, MSc, FRCPC, Department of Health Studies and Gerontology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue East, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
Paul Stolee
University of Waterloo, CA
About Paul
Associate Professor, Department of Health Studies and Gerontology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue East, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3G1.Telephone: (519) 888-4567, Fax: (519) 888-4362
Abstract
Introduction: Care transitions are a common and frequently adverse aspect of health care, resulting in a high-risk period for both care quality and patient safety. Patients who have complex care needs and undergo treatment in multiple care settings, such as older patients with musculoskeletal disorders, may be at higher risk for poor care transitions.
Methods: Key informant interviews were used to gather in-depth information on transitional care issues, particularly those which impact informational continuity, from the perspective of a range of health professionals (η=17) in care settings relevant to the care continuum of older patients with hip fractures.
Results: Three transitional care themes were identified; medical complexity impacts care trajectories, larger circles of care can be both beneficial and challenging, and a variety of channels and modes are required for meaningful information exchange. Many issues cut across each care setting, and address challenges to informational continuity among and between health care providers, patients, and caregivers.
Conclusions: Medical complexity enlarges the circle of care which challenges care continuity. There may be fundamental elements which, regardless of care setting, strengthen transitional care quality. Standardized transitional care processes might help to offset informational discontinuity across care settings as a result of this population's larger circles of care.
How to Cite:
McLeod J, McMurray J, Walker JD, Heckman GA, Stolee P. Care transitions for older patients with musculoskeletal disorders: continuity from the providers’ perspective. International Journal of Integrated Care. 2011;11(2):None. DOI: http://doi.org/10.5334/ijic.555
Published on
24 Mar 2011.
Peer Reviewed
Downloads