Exploring the Perceptions and Experiences of Clinical Nutrition Specialists, General Nutrition Specialists, and Pharmacists in Providing Collaborative Care for Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases in KSA: A Qualitative Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63278/jicrcr.vi.912Keywords:
Bader Munif Alharbi1, Khalaf Munif Alharbi1, Hamoud Ayed Aldhafeeri1, Naser Mashel Alshammari2, Mohammed Nasser Matar Alanaz3, Asma Nazal Jaloud Alanazi4Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally, including in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Effective management of CVDs requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare professionals from various disciplines. This qualitative study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of clinical nutrition specialists, general nutrition specialists, and pharmacists in providing collaborative care for patients with CVDs in KSA.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 18 healthcare professionals (six clinical nutrition specialists, six general nutrition specialists, and six pharmacists) working in hospitals across KSA. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Four main themes emerged from the data: 1) Benefits of collaborative care, 2) Challenges in providing collaborative care, 3) Strategies to enhance collaboration, and 4) Future directions for interprofessional education and practice. Participants perceived that collaborative care improves patient outcomes, enhances care coordination, and promotes evidence-based practice. However, challenges such as role ambiguity, communication barriers, time constraints, and limited resources were identified. Participants suggested strategies to overcome these challenges, including regular multidisciplinary meetings, clear protocols, shared electronic health records, and interprofessional education.
Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the perceptions and experiences of clinical nutrition specialists, general nutrition specialists, and pharmacists regarding collaborative CVD care in KSA. Addressing the identified challenges and implementing the suggested strategies could enhance interprofessional collaboration and ultimately improve the quality of care and outcomes for patients with CVDs. Further research is needed to evaluate the impact of specific interventions aimed at promoting effective collaborative practice in this setting.
