Understanding competencies to manage multimorbidity in primary care: A focus group study with professionals and patients

Abstract

Abstract Background Chronic conditions often occur as multimorbidity, where patients experience multiple chronic conditions simultaneously. Many developed countries have implemented disease management programmes (DMP) in primary care to address these complex needs, but their success largely depends on the competencies of healthcare professionals. Equipping primary care professionals with the competencies required for person-centred integrated care (PC-IC) is therefore essential. Aim This study aims to 1(1) identify the competencies primary care professionals consider essential for providing PC-IC to patients with chronic conditions and multimorbidity and examine their alignment with patient preferences, and 2(2) explore professionals’ training needs. Methods This qualitative study used focus group interviews to explore perspectives on PC-IC. A convenience sample included 14 primary care professionals (general practitioners and practice nurses) and a purposive sample included 10 patients with one or more chronic conditions. Results Primary care professionals identified person-centred attitudes, communication skills and interprofessional collaboration as essential competencies for delivering person-centred integrated care. Patients similarly valued being heard, understood, and actively involved in decision-making, while additionally emphasising continuity and coordinated care. Professionals also emphasised ongoing training, reflective practice groups, case discussions, and practical communication tools as important for developing these competencies. Conclusions Successful implementation of PC-IC requires more than disease-specific expertise. It depends on individual competencies, effective interprofessional collaboration, and organisational conditions that support coordinated, person-centred care. Ongoing professional development may help strengthen these competencies in primary care.