Intermediate Care for Patients Based on the WHO Innovative Care for Chronic Conditions Framework with Community Participation in Khao Rup Chang Municipality, Songkhla Province

Abstract

This mixed-method research used an explanatory stepwise approach to study, based on the World Health Organization's chronic care innovation framework, the situation of intermediate care in Khao Rup Chang Municipality of Songkhla Province, and this, from three interconnected levels of participation. At the micro level, quantitative research was used to collect data, using questionnaires from 63 patients and caregivers. Data were analyzed and interpreted. The average opinions demonstrate that patients and families were well informed, prepared, and motivated to care for patients, in the middle term, at a moderate to high level. Qualitative research was also used at the mid-level, with focus group discussions with 15 health care providers and 9 community networks, while at the macro level, in-depth interviews were conducted with 8 executives. A content analysis was performed.

As a conclusion, health care providers, community networks, and executives involved in Intermediate care should have roles that support each other. Providers, community networks, and executives fully recognize the importance of supporting them. To create a good environment so that all sectors can integrate and work together comprehensively and efficiently is essential, in order for the patients and their families can receive timely and relevant information, accept the truth, not lose hope, dare to express their opinions, prepare, and develop their skills. From a mid-term care system management perspective, the managers must listen to everyone (patients, families, health professionals) in order to determine policies, issue regulations, and to allocate budgets accordingly.

Therefore, public health service units and local administrative organizations should collaboratively develop guidelines for intermediate patient care, with clear community involvement. This will enable each sector to understand their roles and responsibilities and participate appropriately, aiming to achieve good health outcomes and reduce the burden of healthcare.