Substitution of care for chronic heart failure from the hospital to the general practice: patients’ perspectives

摘要

BackgroundShifting care from the secondary to the primary system may present an opportunity to ensure that the increasing number of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) receive high-quality care while containing costs. However, shifting from secondary to primary care might seem radical to patients. A qualitative insight into patients’ issues, preferences, expectations and needs may help arrange a smooth transition from secondary to primary care for CHF patients. The aim of this exploratory study is therefore to gain insights into the way CHF patients in secondary care perceive the possibility of substitution of CHF care from secondary to primary care.