Exploring the general practitioner’s perspective of barriers and facilitators for collaborative care in cardiovascular disease within the primary care setting: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVE: Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia, with primary care playing a crucial role in early intervention. This study aims to understand the facilitators and barriers to collaboration in primary care for the management of cardiovascular disease in Australia. METHODS: This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with maximum purposive sampling to capture general practitioners' perspectives on factors that impact collaboration between general practitioners and allied health professionals in cardiovascular disease management. The consolidated framework for implementation research was used to guide the analysis. RESULTS: General practitioners (n=23) across New South Wales were interviewed. Facilitators of collaboration included pre-established professional relationships, effective communication, existing co-location, severity of cardiovascular disease and perceived improvements in patient outcomes. Barriers identified included limited allied health availability, time constraints, complex referral processes, poor communication, low health literacy, inadequate remuneration and the view that collaboration is less necessary for patients with milder cardiovascular disease. CONCLUSIONS: Ultimately, the success of collaboration hinges on supportive organisational structures and strong professional relationships. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH: Prioritising systemic integration of primary care with allied health services could improve cardiovascular disease risk and chronic disease management.