title: Use of emergency transport by patients with cardiopathies: a focus group study.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The importance of emergency systems accessible by telephone for the early attention of patients with ischemic cardiopathy is well known. In Andalusia, this service is provided by calling 061. However, studies show an insufficient use of the existing emergency system in this type of patient.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To identify explanations related to the decision regarding the method of transport to health-care systems, by private means of transport or 061 services, for people with ischemic cardiopathy from the onset of symptoms until their arrival at the Emergency Department.
  
  
  METHODS
  Eleven focal groups were held with subjects diagnosed with ischemic cardiopathy. The discussions were related to the method of transport (using 061 or their own means of transport to a major hospital or to a nearby health facility for onward transfer), depending on the existence of previous experience and distance to the hospital.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The method of transport is related to the degree of ignorance about what is happening, perceptions regarding the fastest way to reach the hospital, people available around the patient when the event takes place, vehicle availability and possible stressful situations.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study provides information about the reasons for using or not using the emergency transport systems for these patients and understanding how decisions were made. The study's importance lies in the possibility of improving individuals' access to health care systems through education-based actions and a strategic information and training plan that targets patients, families and health professionals.
authors.affiliation: Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Consejería de Salud, Granada, Spain. julia.bolivar.easp@juntadeandalucia.es
authors.forename: Julia
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bolívar-Muñoz
authors.forename: Antonio
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Daponte-Codina
authors.forename: Nuria
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Pascual-Martínez
authors.forename: Fernando
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Barranco-Ruiz
authors.forename: José
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Sánchez-Cruz
authors.forename: Carmen
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Martín-Castro
authors.forename: Eladio
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Gil-Piñero
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000552:Ambulances / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000789:Angina, Unstable / Q000628:therapy*; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000628:therapy*; D017202:Myocardial Ischemia / Q000628:therapy; D013030:Spain