What Are the Core Features of Stroke Care That Support Well-being? A Qualitative Study From the Perspectives of People With Stroke, Whānau, and Stroke Care Providers in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Objectives: To identify the core attributes of quality care that supports well-being from the perspectives of those who access, and provide, stroke services.

Design: Qualitative Interpretive Description study design involving in-depth semi-structured individual and group interviews and analysis using journey mapping and conventional content analysis.

Participants: 24 people with stroke, 13 family/whānau members and 34 healthcare professionals located throughout New Zealand.

Setting: Participants were recruited through health services, stroke support organisations, and professional networks. Interviews were completed in person at people’s homes or workplaces or on an online videoconference.

Results: Analysis generated a quality framework of domains. High quality care that supports well-being after stroke in Aotearoa: supports people through uncertainty; fosters a sense of belonging; prioritises relationships and connecting ‘as people’; attends to the emotional aspects of stroke; centres people’s preferences and supports people to have choice and control; honours Māori knowledges and practices; responds to the strengths and needs of friends and whānau; and attends to people’s holistic long-term well-being.

Conclusions: This study offers a framework for considering holistic stroke care that supports areas of need not consistently addressed in stroke service. This framework can help structure practice and policy and can underpin future research in well-being.