Person-centred integrated primary care targeting patients with chronic conditions and low socioeconomic status: an interview study exploring experiences from healthcare providers and patients

To explore how patients with chronic conditions and low socioeconomic status (LSES) perceived a person-centred integrated-care (PC-IC) approach, developed in co-creation with these patients, general practitioners (GPs) and general practice nurses (PNs). We conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 patients, 2 GPs and 12 PNs who had worked with the PC-IC approach. The approach was developed to tailor primary care for patients with chronic conditions and LSES. It consisted of multiple consultations for a stepwise approach and visual tools. GPs and PNs received training focused on relevant skills before applying the PC-IC approach in practice. The aim of the approach was to adapt care to the context, needs and abilities of these patients. GPs and PNs reported positive experiences and greater job satisfaction with the PC-IC approach, perceiving that patients felt more heard and engaged. The visual tool supported dialogue, helped to build trust and improved understanding of the complex needs of LSES patients beyond their chronic conditions. They recognised a need for closer collaboration with social care. Patients appreciated being seen more as individuals rather than merely as chronic patients, but noticed limited changes in their care. The new PC-IC approach with the visual tool for patients with chronic conditions and LSES is positively assessed by healthcare providers (HCPs) and patients. It increases awareness of relevant issues related to patients’ social context among both HCPs and patients. Improving interdisciplinary collaboration with social domain will even further strengthen PC-IC for patients with chronic conditions.