BMC health services research
Switching for the better? understanding how contextual conditions influence patients' choice of primary care provider
By Blomberg-Ohlström C, Holmström IK, Fredriksson M and 1 others.
Abstract
Background
Considering current expectations that patients will stimulate competition based on quality among healthcare providers through informed choices, this study aims to advance understanding of patients' limited engagement in choosing a primary care provider.
Methods
The study focuses on how contextual conditions-such as institutional and social settings-influence decision-making. Conducted in a Swedish primary care context, the study employed a qualitative approach, using thematic analysis of interviews with 18 respondents who had experience seeking primary care services. To further explore contextual influences, respondents were asked to reflect on and contrast their decisions regarding primary care providers with those related to other services, such as nursing homes or schools.