Unveiling the role of family and community nurses: insights from an Italian Focus Group Study

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the potential role of Family and Community Nurses (FCNs) in an Italian Local Health Authority (LHA) context, aiming to identify unmet healthcare needs and facilitate the integration of FCNs into the healthcare system. Focus Group (FG) sessions involving healthcare professionals from three centers in the Emiliano–Romagnolo Apennines region revealed shared concerns about unaddressed healthcare needs, caregiver support inadequacies, service accessibility barriers, and the importance of enhanced interprofessional collaboration. Participants highlighted vulnerable populations, such as the frail and chronically ill, as those requiring more comprehensive care. The study identified key areas where FCNs could be instrumental, including monitoring complex medication regimens for elderly individuals, supporting caregivers, empowering vulnerable individuals, providing education, facilitating service access, and fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals. It emphasized the significance of multidisciplinary teamwork while maintaining clear role distinctions for FCNs. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness and economic implications of FCN integration. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and organizations to promote FCN utilization, aligning with the World Health Organization's emphasis on primary healthcare and catering to the needs of individuals, families, and communities.