Perspective from health professionals on delivery of sub-acute care in Hong Kong: A qualitative study in a health system

• Published in: Health policy (Amsterdam) Vol. 100; no. 2; pp. 211 - 218
• Main Authors: Wong, Eliza L.Y, Yam, Carrie H.K, Chan, Frank W.K, Cheung, Annie W.L, Wong, Fiona Y.Y, Griffiths, S, Yeoh, E.K
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Ireland Elsevier Ireland Ltd 01-05-2011; Elsevier
• Series: Health Policy
• Subjects: Adult; Chinese people; Communication barrier; Delivery of Health Care; Female; Focus Groups; Health administration; Health Personnel; Health professionals; Healthcare system; Hong Kong; Hong Kong, China; Hospitalization; Humans; Internal Medicine; Male; Middle Aged; Quality of care; Quality of life; Service provision; Specialists; Sub-acute care; Sub-acute care Communication barrier Health professionals Healthcare system; Subacute Care - organization & administration; Hong Kong; Healthcare system; Communication barrier; Sub-acute care; Health professionals
• ISSN: 0168-8510; 1872-6054
• DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2010.10.022

Abstract Objectives The perception and understanding of health professionals of the role of sub-acute care in the health system will have an impact on the potential effectiveness in preventing unnecessary hospitalization. This study aims to explore the perceived role and quality of sub-acute care services in the context of Hong Kong from the perspective of health service providers and to identify barriers to effectiveness. Methods Seven focus groups were conducted and the discussion was led by a guide covering three main areas: definition/component/role of sub-acute, difficulties in the sub-acute care services provision, and suggestion for further improvement in the provision of sub-acute care. Results The participants highlighted the positive role of sub-acute to promote patient's health and quality of life so as to reduce unnecessary hospitalization. The potential barriers in the sub-acute care identified were interrelated and focused mainly on systemic issues including lack of service coordination, specialist input and resources. The participants also suggested a number of practical ways to improve the quality of sub-acute care services. Conclusions The findings showed a need for further improvement in the process of sub-acute care by developing operation guideline and re-evaluating the allocation of resources to support the sub-acute care provision.