Health Providers Perspectives on the Access and Use of Formal Health and Social Services by Stroke Caregivers
Abstract
Informal stroke caregivers, comprised of family and friends, can experience prolonged stress that places them at risk of poor health and social outcomes. These caregivers may benefit from formal health and social services, but they are often underused and challenging to access. This qualitative interpretive description study sought to explore health providers’ perspectives on the factors that impact stroke caregivers' access and use of formal health and social services. In addition, it sought to explore health providers' experiences and how they perceive their role in supporting stroke caregivers'. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 health providers. Through inductive thematic analysis, resultant themes include: (a) a fragmented health system impacts the ability to provide continuity of care, (b) challenges in care provision and accessibility creates moral distress for health providers, (c) access to social support is pivotal for stroke caregivers’ self-care, (d) stroke caregivers require individualized care, (e) providing a single access point for stroke caregiver support is essential for success, and (f) current services are not meeting people living with stroke and stroke caregivers’ needs. Health providers are critical stakeholders due to their rich understanding of this issue, highlighting the importance of their involvement in caregiver initiatives.