A Qualitative study assessing organisational readiness to implement caregiver support programmes in Ontario, Canada

OBJECTIVE: To qualitatively explore factors affecting implementation of caregiver support programmes in healthcare institutions in a regional stroke system. DESIGN: A qualitative descriptive study with the Ontario Stroke System (OSS) was conducted. Data were collected through focus groups and in-depth interviews. Transcripts were coded and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. SETTING: Regional Stroke System, Ontario, Canada. PARTICIPANTS: OSS stakeholders including medical directors, executives, programme directors, education coordinators, rehabilitation and community and long-term care specialists, primary care leaders and healthcare professionals. INTERVENTION: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Data collection explored perceptions of the need for caregiver support programmes and factors that may affect their implementation. RESULTS: Four focus groups (n=43) and 29 interviews were completed. Analyses identified themes related to (1) evidence that a caregiver programme will improve health and health system outcomes, (2) personnel requirements, (3) barriers associated with current billing and referral processes and (4) integration with current practice and existing workflow processes. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation strategies to adopt caregiver programmes into clinical practice should incorporate evidence and consider personnel and existing workflow processes.