How Is Quality of Care in Home Healthcare Created? A Qualitative Study of Health Professionals’ Perspectives

Abstract

The demographic challenges with an increase in older adults in need of nursing care has put home healthcare services under pressure. However, research on what constitutes quality of home healthcare services and what factors influence good nursing care and patient safety is scarce. The aim of this study was to gain insight into health professionals’ perceptions of how quality of care in home healthcare is created and what factors put patient safety at risk. The present study was a qualitative study with semi-structured interviews of eight health professionals working in home healthcare services. Qualitative content analysis was used. Four categories of factors the staff thought had to be present to provide good quality services were identified: (1) A workplace with adequate competence; (2) Communication, information flow and collaboration; (3) Continuity and organisation of care; and (4) Resources. Conclusions: The healthcare professionals perceived that the quality of the services overall was good, and if important factors were present, quality of care was achieved. However, they pointed out some factors that were important to prevent inadequate care and improve services, as quality of care was at risk when deficiencies in these areas occurred.