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Table 2 Themes and Sub-themes by Research Question

From: Disconnected relationships between primary care and community-based health and social services and system navigation for older adults: a qualitative descriptive study

Research Question 1: PC and HSS Providers’ Perceptions of Common Health and Social Service Needs, Barriers in Accessing PC and HSS, and Service Gaps Experienced by Community-dwelling Older Adults

HHS Needs of Older Adults

 • Need for improved management of multiple chronic conditions

 • Need for a shared understanding of older adults’ needs and abilities

 • Need for understanding and acceptance of services and supports

 • Need for social support and advocacy

Barriers to Accessing HSS and PC Services for Older Adults

 • Untimely access

 • Restrictive eligibility criteria

 • Financial challenges

Service Gaps for Older Adults

 • Lack of affordable and accessible transportation

 • Challenges with communication

 • Health literacy

Research Question 2: The Nature of Relationships between PC and HSS

 • HSS struggling to communicate with PC

 • PC has stronger linkages with core health services than with HSS

 • Frustration with the complex nature of HSS system navigation

 • Poor care coordination

Research Question 3: System Navigation Strategies to Facilitate Access to Services for Older Adults

Theme

Sub-theme

 • Improving partnerships between service providers

• Employing effective communication strategies

• Building trust and rapport between HSS and PC

 • Working to meet the needs of the client

• Using a person-centred approach

• Applying effective case coordination

• Adapting services/programs to address access barriers and fill gaps for older adults’ needs

• Advocating for improved program access for older adults