title: The role of an intermediate unit in a clinical pathway.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Different care models have been established to achieve more coordinated clinical pathways for older patients in the transition between hospital and home. This study explores an intermediate unit's role in a clinical pathway for older patients with somatic diseases.
  
  
  METHODS
  Qualitative data were collected via interviews, observations, and a questionnaire. Participants included patients and healthcare providers within both specialist and primary healthcare. Transcripts of interviews and field notes were analyzed using a method of systematic text condensation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Healthcare providers in the hospital, the intermediate unit, and the municipalities have different opinions about who is a 'suitable' patient for the unit and what is the proper time for hospital discharge. This results in time-consuming negotiations between the hospital and the unit. Incompatible computer systems increase the healthcare provider's workload. Several informants are doubtful as to whether a stay in the unit is useful to the patients, while the patients are mostly pleased with their stay and the transferral.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study describes challenges that may occur when a new unit is established in an existing healthcare system in order to achieve an appropriate clinical pathway from hospital to home.
authors.affiliation: HØKH/Research Senter, Akershus University Hospital, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway.
authors.forename: Anne-Kari
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Johannessen
authors.forename: Hilde
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Lurås
authors.forename: Sissel
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Steihaug
keywords: clinical pathways; intermediate unit; older; qualitative research