Building an understanding of goal-oriented care through the experiences of people living with chronic conditions

Abstract

Objective: To understand the concept of goal-oriented care (GOC) through the experiences of people with chronic conditions.

Method: Interviews with people living with chronic conditions (n = 50) were analyzed in two ways. A deductive approach based on GOC attributes generated in a concept analysis on GOC: goal-elicitation, goal-setting, goal-evaluation, patients' context, and patients' needs and preferences. An inductive approach based on a thematic analysis using descriptive phenomenology.

Results: The phase of goal-elicitation was recognized by the participants, whereas goal-setting and goal-evaluation were experienced to a lesser extent. Regarding the underpinning attributes, mixed feelings were reported concerning the integration of the patient's context and the presence of their needs and preferences throughout the care process. The inductive analysis revealed specific attention to informing patients about their condition and treatment options and discussing goals in interprofessional collaboration.

Conclusion: Goal-elicitation was already present and seems to be a good foundation for GOC. More attention should be given to goal-setting and goal-evaluation.

Practice implications: Developing guidance by means of a workflow, tools, or questions might support people with chronic conditions and providers to underpin the entire care process with patients' personal goals.

Keywords: Chronic; Chronic care; Conditions; Goal-oriented care; Patients' goals; Person-centered care; Primary care; Qualitative research.