[Development of a catalogue of criteria for successful medical care in nursing homes].

BACKGROUND

Medical care in German nursing homes is predominantly provided by general practitioners. The extent of care provided by specialists is rather limited. The aim of this project was to develop a catalogue of criteria for a successful cooperation between nursing home staff and physicians.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Based on empirical data from a mixed-methods study with qualitative and quantitative elements, which was conducted in 52 Bavarian nursing homes, a catalogue of criteria was developed in a review process in cooperation with a working group consisting of representatives of different professional groups and public authorities.

RESULTS

Based on the empirical results six main criteria for successful medical care in nursing homes and actions to be taken for implementation were developed.

CONCLUSIONS

The essential requirements for successful medical care in nursing homes include binding arrangements between professional groups, a small number of designated contact persons between nursing home staff and physicians, and an appreciative and mutually respectful interaction between all the parties involved.