The Forgotten Caregivers: A Qualitative Study Exploring the Experiences of Fathers of Children With Medical Complexity

Abstract

Aim(s): To explore the caregiving experiences and support needs of fathers of children with medical complexity in Canada. Design: A qualitative study guided by interpretive description methodology and informed by a Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) lens. Methods: Data were collected through 60-min semi-structured interviews with seven fathers of children with medical complexity and analyzed using thematic analysis. The study followed the COREQ guidelines and checklist. Results: Thematic analysis identified fathers' key roles as financial providers, hands-on caregivers, and as playing a key role in supporting their partners emotionally with the challenges of caregiving. Fathers prioritised the need for peer support, flexible workplace policies and improved access to mental health services. Conclusion: The findings indicate that there is a critical need for more inclusive and flexible support systems and workplace policies that acknowledge and accommodate the important caregiving roles of fathers of children with medical complexity. Relevance to Clinical Practice: The implications for healthcare professionals include actively involving fathers in care planning and providing targeted support services that recognise their roles to enhance child and family outcomes. Patient or Public Contribution: We worked closely with our community advisory team, comprised of a physician, social worker and community organisation leader, who contributed to the study design, supported participant recruitment, and assisted in disseminating the findings back to the community, helping to ensure the research was grounded in and responsive to the needs of families of children with medical complexity.