Management challenges in care pathways: conclusions of a qualitative study within 57 health-care organizations.

Autor: Van Gerven, E., Vanhaecht, K., Deneckere, S., Vleugels, A., Sermeus, W.
Zdroj: International Journal of Care Pathways; Dec2010, Vol. 14 Issue 4, p142-149, 8p, 1 Chart, 1 Graph
Abstrakt: The objectives of this paper are to study the aim of care pathways, who has decisional power concerning pathways, the actual follow-up, challenges in cross-boundary development and the support provided by information and communication technology (ICT). The study design included a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 88 care pathway coordinators and members of the executive board in 57 health-care organizations enrolled in the Belgian- Dutch Clinical Pathway Network. The study revealed that the most important objectives for introducing care pathways are more standardization and quality of care. In 76% of the interviewed organizations, pathways are discussed in a committee. There is a lack of continuous follow-up when care pathways are implemented. Pathways can facilitate cross-boundary care, but are a challenge because of the fragmentation within primary care. There is a need for more ICT support for care pathways. In conclusion, the executive board members and pathway coordinators state that clearly formulated objectives, a special steering committee, a clear follow-up to keep pathways alive, cross-boundary collaboration and ICT support are among the main challenges for the management of an organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index