Accessing care within team-based models of primary care for the management of chronic low back pain in Ontario, Canada: a qualitative study of patient experiences

Abstract

Purpose To understand experiences accessing care within team-based primary care models among adults with chronic low back pain (LBP). Materials & Methods We conducted an interpretive description qualitative study and collected data using one-to-one semi-structured interviews. Participants were recruited from publicly funded, team-based primary care models in Ontario, Canada. Results We completed interviews with 16 adults with chronic LBP (9 women; median age of 66). Participants expressed a desire to access care from team-based models of primary care in hopes of alleviating pain and its impacts on daily life. Due to no direct out-of-pocket costs, co-location of healthcare providers, and the use of technology and virtual care, participants described an ease of accessing interprofessional care within team-based primary care models. Finally, participants described experiences with and expectations for timely access to care, being heard and understood by healthcare providers, and receiving coordinated care by an interprofessional team. Conclusions Adults living with chronic LBP described overall positive experiences and specific expectations when accessing care within team-based models of primary care, whereby they experienced an ease of accessing interprofessional care with the hope of alleviating pain and its impacts. Results may be transferable to other chronic pain conditions and health system contexts.