Background
Patient-centred care is when an individual’s specific health needs and desired outcomes are the driving force behind all healthcare decisions (NEJM 2017). It is increasingly emphasised in modern medical care, with the aim of empowering patients to become active participants in their care (Reynolds A, 2009). In 2023, the proportion of Irish people over 65 was 15.3%, increased from 12.3% in 2013 (CSO 2024). As older people have a greater utilisation of healthcare, it is essential to tailor the way healthcare is delivered to meet their needs. Research has been carried out to optimise the delivery of healthcare to older patients. In the UK in 2022, van Oppen et al interviewed 22 clinically frail patients (mean age 85) to establish what matters most to them in acute care. They found what mattered most was “Autonomy” and “Functioning”, which were further subcategorised into issues such as control, information and physical function, among others. More recently, a US qualitative study by Gettel et al (2022) interviewed 46 patients aged over 70-years, attending the emergency department, about what matters most to them. The results were broad, and covered issues such as reassurance, symptom resolution and preservation of their premorbid status. This project I propose will expand on current research by interviewing patients who attend both specialist and general ambulatory departments in an Irish hospital.
Aims
The aims of this project are to identify what matters most to frail patients aged over 70-years regarding their healthcare, to describe any differences between the patient’s desires and the perception of their family/carers.
Hypothesis
We believe that differences will be revealed between what matters most for patients and their family or carers. We expect themes such as independence, maintaining dignity, and active involvement in their own care will be prominent aspects that “matter most” to patients.