Abstract
Background
Patients with multimorbidity often encounter complex care needs. Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus introduced a novel approach: enabling patients to initiate Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) conferences with specialists. This study explores daily challenges in complex care and compares them between MDT initiators and non-initiators.
Methods
Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 MDT initiators and 28 non-initiators between 2022 and 2023. Out of 4189 patients from the diabetes clinic, invitations were extended to initiate the intervention. The research methodology employed Interpretive Description Methodology, with Aaron Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence theory as the theoretical lens.
Results
Few patients initiated the MDT, with most non-initiators considering it irrelevant. MDT initiators expressed greater concerns about polypharmacy and experienced more pronounced symptoms of fatigue, physical pain, and psychological distress. However, no significant differences were found in physical limitations and perceived well-being between the two groups. Both faced challenges managing chronic illnesses and uncoordinated schedules.
Conclusions
Significant differences exist between MDT initiators and non-initiators, with initiators demonstrating heightened awareness of daily care complexities. This suggests promising results for patients with complex care needs to engage with a multidisciplinary team, discuss a coordinated care plan, and improve self-management. Addressing low uptake requires systematic approaches to identify patients needing additional support. Further research is essential to accurately target those most likely to benefit from such interventions.