[Feasibility and benefits of a check-up 45+for identifying rehabilitation and disease prevention needs in primary care - A multiperspective qualitative study].

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the feasibility, benefits, and implementability of a check-up 45+in primary care from the perspective of general practices, patients, and employees of the German Pension Insurance. This study complements a randomized controlled trial that examined the effectiveness of the check-up 45+to identify rehabilitation or disease prevention needs at an early stage and simplify the rehabilitation application process.Guided interviews were conducted with 13 general practitioners, ten medical professionals, eleven patients, and four employees of the German Pension Insurance. The interviews were conducted in person or by telephone/video and were evaluated using content-structuring qualitative content analysis according to Kuckartz.General practitioners assessed the implementation of the check-up 45+in their daily practice as practical and time-efficient. There was strong interest in identifying needs at an earlier stage. Both practice staff and patients were made more aware of the issues of prevention and rehabilitation. In particular, more information was found to be needed about the prevention services offered by the German Pension Insurance. Acceptance of the check-up 45+among patients was high; they particularly appreciated the fact that it was carried out in a familiar environment. Employees of the German Pension Insurance rated the usefulness of the check-up 45+as high in principle for attracting people with a need for rehabilitation or prevention services. In contrast, the modified rehabilitation application procedure tested in the study received mixed evaluations.From the perspective of all stakeholders, the check-up 45+is a feasible and time-efficient procedure for the early and structured identification of rehabilitation and prevention needs in primary care. Its acceptance and perceived benefit are generally considered to be high. The check-up 45+supports general practitioners in addressing the issues of rehabilitation and prevention more systematically and in facilitating needs-based access to rehabilitation and prevention services. While simplification of the rehabilitation application process is welcomed in principle, it requires careful consideration and design.