How has the COVID-19 pandemic influenced patient-centred care? Analysis of a qualitative collective case study by high performing practice teams

Abstract

Background and objective The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected primary healthcare systems throughout the world. The aim of this article is to present the analysis of the perspectives and experiences of patientcentred care (PCC) during the pandemic by high-functioning general practice teams in Australia. Methods A qualitative descriptive approach and collective case study method was employed. Participants, who undertook a semi-structured interview, were representatives of high-functioning general practice teams. Reflective thematic analysis was applied to all interview data (meta-synthesis) using a constant comparison approach. Results Five clinic representatives were interviewed. Six themes developed, highlighting that despite the pandemic creating new challenges to delivering PCC, general practice teams maintained a focus on PCC. General practice teams adapted to deliver PCC through strategies not used prior to the pandemic. Discussion This study identified new approaches to PCC that can guide other general practices and progress the health system towards policy-based PCC objectives.