En analys av närsjukvårdens arbete i Göteborg

Abstract

The healthcare system faces significant challenges, with a pressing shortage of hospital beds and a growing need for healthcare services. One potential solution to face this challenge is home care, which can reduce the burden on existing healthcare facilities and improve resource efficiency. By treating patients pre-hospitally and giving those possible treatments at home, the risk of them requiring hospital admission is reduced, thereby also reducing pressure on healthcare staff. In this context, mobile healthcare teams play a crucial role in delivering this care at home. This project aims to analyze the work of mobile healthcare teams at Östra Hospital, Mölndal Hospital, and Sahlgrenska Hospital within the Sahlgrenska University Hospital network in Gothenburg. With a particular focus on understanding the shared practices and collaboration between the hospitals, as well as identifying barriers and opportunities for improvement. The project was carried out through a combination of qualitative research methods including semi-structured interviews and observations with staff working within the mobile teams and a literature review. The findings indicate that while each hospital has its own strengths and practices, differences in resources and prior experience have led to distinct working methods. The differences in resources means staff, equipment and technologies. While all teams share the overarching goal of providing equitable and high-quality care to all patients in Gothenburg, varying approaches have led to friction between them, particularly in how they prioritize urgent versus planned care and handle communication. For example, Östra Hospital is more focused on managing urgent visits and has greater resources, while Mölndal emphasizes long-term care, particularly for elderly patients. Sahlgrenska strikes a balance between urgent and planned care. Despite these differences, all teams are highly competent and dedicated to their work, which ultimately contributes to the overall success of the home care initiative. The study underscores the need for a shared vision and improved coordination among the teams. Collaboration, common guidelines, and shared goals are essential to overcoming friction and ensuring long-term success and organizational learning. Recommendations include regular workshops, feedback systems, and performance metrics to foster learning and knowledge-sharing. By leveraging each team’s strengths and optimizing resource allocation, the hospitals can establish a cohesive approach to mobile home care, which will play an increasingly vital role in healthcare’s future.