Understanding the acceptability of the changing model of care in cystic fibrosis

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) outpatient care has evolved into a hybrid model, incorporating telehealth and face-to-face reviews. This study explores the acceptability of the hybrid model of care from the perspective of people with CF and parents of children with CF.

Methods

People with CF and parents of children with CF from eight Australian CF centres participated in semi-structured interviews. Maximum variation sampling sought participants from varied socioeconomic levels and geographical locations. The interview guide and thematic analysis utilised the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) to explore domains of acceptability.

Results

Ten adults and 16 parents of children with CF were interviewed. The major themes from the interviews aligned with the TFA domains. These were [1]: life is easier with a hybrid model of care [2], hybrid care is effective but not comprehensive [3], hybrid care needs to adapt to individual needs [4], confidence in hybrid care is determined by internal and external factors [5], hybrid care is easy to engage in[6] accepting hybrid care involves compromising valued aspects of face-to-face care [7], hybrid care reduces infection risk and helps normalise life.

Conclusion

The addition of telehealth to the traditional model of CF care is acceptable overall. The level of acceptability is variable and is determined by the willingness to compromise valued aspects of face-to-face care to obtain the convenience, safety and normality that receiving part of care through telehealth allows. Therefore, the model should be personalised in consultation with people with CF and parents of children with CF.