How do older patients and their GPs evaluate shared decision-making in healthcare?

ABSTRACT:

Background

Older persons represent a growing share of the population, yet very little is known about their specific healthcare needs, problems, and expectations. IMPROVE is an international research project that seeks to improve elderly persons' involvement in their healthcare. This paper analyzes perceptions of patient involvement by elderly patients and their GPs in family medicine in Slovenia.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with patients over 70 and their GPs were audio-taped and transcribed. The interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Specific characteristics of old age must be taken into account in the involvement of older patients. It is important to know the patient's expectations and to communicate clearly with the patient. A t

SUBMITTER: Rotar-Pavlic D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2386122 | biostudies-literature | 2008 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature