Activating people to address their health care needs: learning from people with lived experience of chronic illnesses

Community Ment Health J. 2014 Aug;50(6):656-63. doi: 10.1007/s10597-013-9686-3. Epub 2013 Dec 13.

Abstract

One of the primary goals of health care reform is improving the quality and reducing the costs of care for people with co-morbid mental health and physical health conditions. One strategy is to integrate primary and behavioral health care through care coordination and patient activation. This qualitative study using community based participatory research methods informs the development of integrated care by presenting the perspectives of those with lived experience of chronic illnesses and homelessness. Themes presented include the internal and external barriers to addressing health needs and the key role of peer support in overcoming these barriers.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chronic Disease / psychology
  • Chronic Disease / therapy*
  • Delivery of Health Care / organization & administration
  • Health Care Reform
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Humans
  • Ill-Housed Persons / psychology
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / psychology
  • Mental Disorders / therapy
  • Needs Assessment*
  • Patient Participation* / methods
  • Patient Participation* / psychology