Exploring patient and provider perspectives on outpatient care and the family practice model at a university hospital in Ghana
6 affiliations
- 1School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- 2University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- 3School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- 4School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- 5University Information and Technological Services, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- 6University of Ghana Business School, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
Abstract
Background: Fragmented outpatient care, and disrupted patient–provider continuity hinder progress towards the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in many low- and middle-income countries including Ghana. Despite efforts such as the National Health Insurance Scheme and Community-based Health Planning and Services, continuity of care remains a challenge. This study explored stakeholders’ perspectives on implementing a Family Practice Model to strengthen primary care and advance UHC at a University Hospital in Ghana. Methods: A descriptive-analytical qualitative study was conducted from September 2023 to May 2024 at the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. Twenty-eight participants were purposively selected, comprising nine healthcare providers (physicians and physician assistants) and 19 care recipients (university staffs). Semi-structured interviews, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, explored experiences with the current outpatient system and views on the proposed FPM. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed using NVivo version 14. Results: Two major themes emerged: “Therapeutic Disconnection” and “A Doctor to Call My Own.” Participants described the existing care system as fragmented, impersonal, and marked by rotating providers, poor documentation, and rushed consultations. These issues weakened trust and care continuity. In contrast, stakeholders supported a dedicated, relationship-based model that would ensure continuity, streamline care processes, and foster long-term provider–patient connections. Conclusion: The Family Practice Model could transform outpatient care at the university hospital and beyond by enhancing continuity, trust, and overall service quality. However, successful implementation depends on tailored strategies encompassing policy support, and pilot testing to assess feasibility and impact on UHC goals in Ghana.
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BibTeX
@article{diji2026exploring,
title = {{Exploring patient and provider perspectives on outpatient care and the family practice model at a university hospital in Ghana}},
author = {Abigail Kusi-Amponsah Diji and Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng and Hayford Asare and Godwin Antwi and Douglas Aninng Opoku and Eric Kojo Nsa Oduro and Emmanuel Konadu and Nana Akua Abruquah and Elizabeth Oppong-Kyekyeku and Mercy Addae and Emmanuel Mfum-Mensah and Anita Asiwome Baku},
journal = {PLOS One},
year = {2026},
month = sep,
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0327277},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0327277},
note = {CC BY 4.0},
}
RIS
TY - JOUR
TI - Exploring patient and provider perspectives on outpatient care and the family practice model at a university hospital in Ghana
AU - Abigail Kusi-Amponsah Diji
AU - Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng
AU - Hayford Asare
AU - Godwin Antwi
AU - Douglas Aninng Opoku
AU - Eric Kojo Nsa Oduro
AU - Emmanuel Konadu
AU - Nana Akua Abruquah
AU - Elizabeth Oppong-Kyekyeku
AU - Mercy Addae
AU - Emmanuel Mfum-Mensah
AU - Anita Asiwome Baku
PY - 2026
DA - 2026/09/09
JO - PLOS One
DO - 10.1371/journal.pone.0327277
UR - https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0327277
AB - Background: Fragmented outpatient care, and disrupted patient–provider continuity hinder progress towards the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in many low- and middle-income countries including Ghana. Despite efforts such as the National Health Insurance Scheme and Community-based Health Planning and Services, continuity of care remains a challenge. This study explored stakeholders’ perspectives on implementing a Family Practice Model to strengthen primary care and advance UHC at a University Hospital in Ghana. Methods: A descriptive-analytical qualitative study was conducted from September 2023 to May 2024 at the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. Twenty-eight participants were purposively selected, comprising nine healthcare providers (physicians and physician assistants) and 19 care recipients (university staffs). Semi-structured interviews, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, explored experiences with the current outpatient system and views on the proposed FPM. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed using NVivo version 14. Results: Two major themes emerged: “Therapeutic Disconnection” and “A Doctor to Call My Own.” Participants described the existing care system as fragmented, impersonal, and marked by rotating providers, poor documentation, and rushed consultations. These issues weakened trust and care continuity. In contrast, stakeholders supported a dedicated, relationship-based model that would ensure continuity, streamline care processes, and foster long-term provider–patient connections. Conclusion: The Family Practice Model could transform outpatient care at the university hospital and beyond by enhancing continuity, trust, and overall service quality. However, successful implementation depends on tailored strategies encompassing policy support, and pilot testing to assess feasibility and impact on UHC goals in Ghana.
SN - 1932-6203
ER -