ABSTRACT
Aim: This mixed-methods cross-sectional study examined the cooperation between nursing home staff and physicians in Bavarian nursing homes in order to understand which organisational and communication measures are resulting in satisfying teamwork among professional groups in nursing homes. Methods: In 3 interview rounds nursing home staff, general practitioners, medical specialists, dentists, nursing home residents, and relatives in 52 nursing homes were interviewed using a questionnaire that was enhanced after every round. Additionally, focus group interviews have been performed in 2 nursing homes. Results: 443 persons involved in patient care, 50 residents and 47 relatives participated in the structured interviews. 22 persons attended the focus group interviews. 65% of the nursing homes required regular visits of general practitioners and 36% or, respectively, 27% required regular or on demand visits of specialists. 47% of the nursing home staff that was asked about this issue stated that it would make their work easier if only a small number of physicians were in charge of their institution. Measures for improvement of medical care in nursing homes most frequently suggested by interview partners responsible for patient care were: better communication (9%), better remuneration of physicians' nursing home visits (7%, nurses and physicians) and less bureaucracy and regular physicians' visits (5% in each question). Conclusion: Because of the composition of our study sample it cannot be assumed that the results are representative for all Bavarian nursing homes. Confidence in one another, low number of persons in charge, binding agreements and regular physicians' nursing home visits are essential for a successful cooperation between providing physicians and nursing home staff.
