Perceptions of multidisciplinary case conferencing in residential aged care facilities.
OBJECTIVE
To explore the understanding about and perceptions of, multidisciplinary case conferencing in residential aged care from the perspective of residential facility staff, residents, carers and general practitioners.


METHODS
Focus groups and in-depth interviews were conducted with nurses, residents, carers, allied health workers and general practitioners from two residential aged care facilities during February-March 2008. Conversations were analysed using thematic analysis techniques.


RESULTS
Thematic analyses highlighted four key themes. Most notably, respondents identified a degree of confusion regarding the purpose of case conferencing and its role in resident health care. The ad hoc development of the conferencing model led to unclear role descriptions for participants that contributed to role confusion and the lack of a collaborative culture. Underpinning much of the discussion was the need for a framework to support the organisation of the conference process.


CONCLUSIONS
While the process of multidisciplinary case conferencing in residential aged care has significant potential to improve resident care and health outcomes, the development of an explicit framework is required to support the effective conduct of these meetings. Key stakeholders need to be engaged to develop a team approach to conducting case conferences that facilitates the active participation of providers, residents and their carers.
Halcomb
Elizabeth J
EJ
School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith South DC, Sydney, NSW 1797, Australia. e.halcomb@uws.edu.au
Shepherd
Bernadette M
BM
Griffiths
Rhonda
R
D017144:Focus Groups; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D010348:Patient Care Team