Care Pathway of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE)

A Qualitative Study on the Experiences and Needs of Patients and Physicians

Authors

  • Liselotte van Dijk Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), the Netherlands https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5747-7163
  • Linda van Eikenhorst Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), the Netherlands https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3684-569X
  • Mattanja Triemstra Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), the Netherlands https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7133-6028
  • Menno V. Huisman Department of Medicine—Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1423-5348
  • Cordula Wagner Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), the Netherlands; Department of Public and Occupational Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47368/ejhc.2024.301

Keywords:

deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, patient experiences, physician experiences, focus groups

Abstract

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are prevalent diseases associated with high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to explore the experiences and needs of patients and physicians within the care pathway of DVT and PE. Ensuring care pathways match patients’ and physicians’ needs, could positively impact therapy adherence and patient satisfaction. Participants were 34 patients and 18 physicians. The qualitative focus groups occurred face-to-face and on an online discussion forum, utilising a predefined topic list. Focus group transcripts were analysed through deductive thematic analysis. Patients and physicians shared similar needs and experiences with information provision and shared decision making. Differences emerged regarding the adequacy of information provided, follow-up and monitoring of residual complaints, and personalised care. Generally, patients expressed higher levels of dissatisfaction compared to physicians. Our findings reveal a disparity between the perceived quality of care by physicians and patients, with patients expressing needs that diverge from physicians' assumptions. Patients need psychological support following DVT and PE, whereas physicians focus on physical recovery. Treatment intensity could be adjusted to align with patients' preferences. These findings highlight the potential for optimising care for patients and ensuring better outcomes in the management of DVT and PE.

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Published

10.07.2024

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Section

Original Research Paper

How to Cite

van Dijk, L., van Eikenhorst, L., Triemstra, M., Huisman, M. V., & Wagner, C. (2024). Care Pathway of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE): A Qualitative Study on the Experiences and Needs of Patients and Physicians. European Journal of Health Communication, 5(3), 1-18. https://doi.org/10.47368/ejhc.2024.301