Why are there gaps in our management of those with high cardiovascular risk?

Introduction: Multiple New Zealand and other international studies have identified gaps in the management of those identified at high risk of a future cardiovascular (CV) event. This study sought to explore the views of health professionals about the barriers and facilitators present within the current primary health care system to the optimal management of those at high CV risk.

Methods: This qualitative study utilised a focus group methodology to examine the barriers and facilitators within primary health care (PHC), and employed a general inductive approach to analyse the text data.

The acceptability of chronic disease management programmes to patients, general practitioners and practice nurses.

Aim: To evaluate the perceived effectiveness and acceptability of a disease management programme for patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) in South Auckland.

Methods: Focus groups were held with patients, and practice nurses (PNs) and general practitioners (GPs) interviewed to develop the questionnaires. Questionnaires were posted to the 150 patients, 14 GPs and 6 PNs involved in the programme.

The development and implementation of the Chronic Care Management Programme in Counties Manukau.

Aims: To develop an effective and efficient process for the seamless delivery of care for targeted patients with specific chronic diseases. To reduce inexplicable variation and maximise use of available resources by implementing evidence-based care processes. To develop a programme that is acceptable and applicable to the Counties Manukau region.