Improving continuity of care in Finnish primary health care: Insights from a nationwide qualitative study of primary care physicians.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Continuity of care (COC) is a core value in general practice. It has been deteriorating in Finnish primary health care, but there are now attempts to improve it.

Objectives

This study focused on gathering insights of primary care physicians (PCPs) on how COC can be improved within Finnish primary health care.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide survey targeting all PCPs working in primary health care. A web-based questionnaire was sent to PCPs in Finland from May to October of 2023. The questionnaire included the question 'How would you improve continuity of care in your workplace?' Data were analysed using a descriptive approach that involved iterative and inductive thematic analysis.

Results

We received a total of 291 responses from PCPs across Finla

SUBMITTER: Mikkonen U 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12642884 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature