Mind the gap between policy imperatives and service provision: a qualitative study of the process of respiratory service development in England and Wales
2008

Understanding Respiratory Service Development in England and Wales

Sample size: 30 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hamilton Sonya, Huby Guro, Tierney Alison, Powell Alison, Kielmann Tara, Sheikh Aziz, Pinnock Hilary

Primary Institution: University of Edinburgh

Hypothesis

How are Primary Care Organisations in England and Wales reconfiguring their workforce to develop respiratory services?

Conclusion

There is a significant gap between policy intentions and the practical realities of implementing respiratory service changes in Primary Care Organisations.

Supporting Evidence

  • Respiratory conditions are responsible for 7% of deaths in the UK.
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) accounts for one in eight emergency admissions to hospitals.
  • Many PCOs are merging, which creates uncertainty in service development.
  • Financial constraints often dictate the models of care that can be developed.

Takeaway

This study looked at how healthcare groups in England and Wales are trying to improve care for people with breathing problems, but they face many challenges like not having enough money.

Methodology

Semi-structured qualitative telephone interviews with representatives from 30 Primary Care Organisations.

Potential Biases

Interviewees may have had limited awareness of their PCO's situation, potentially affecting the data collected.

Limitations

The study may not represent all contexts in Primary Care Organisations, as it was based on a purposive sample and single interviews.

Participant Demographics

Diverse demographic profiles of the 30 Primary Care Organisations were included.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6963-8-248

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