ObjectivesMultimorbidity is an increasing challenge. Better understanding of lived experiences of patients, GPs and trainees, may advance patient care and medical education. This interpretative metasynthesis sought to i) understand lived experiences of patients, GPs and trainees regarding multimorbidity, ii) identify how similarities and differences in experiences should shape future solutions.
MethodsEmpirical studies containing qualitative data and pertaining to lived experiences from our recent realist synthesis (PROSPERO 2013:CRD42013003862) were included. Following quality assessment, data were extracted from key studies to build an integrated analytic framework.Data from remaining studies were utilised to expand and refine the framework through thematic analysis of concepts within and between perspectives.
Results21 papers were included in the meta-synthesis. Analysis of 70 concepts produced five themes: 1) goals of care and decision-making, 2) complexity, 3) meeting expectations, 4) logistics and 5) interpersonal dynamics. The complexities of multimorbidity lead to shared feelings of vulnerability, uncertainty and enforced compromises. Barriers to optimal care/education included system constraints, inadequate continuity and role uncertainty.
DiscussionThere was little evidence of shared discussion of these challenges. Addressing these issues and more explicit exploration of the experiences of each group during interactions may improve delivery and satisfaction in care and education.