Exploring consumer perspectives about the Health Care Home model of primary care provision: A qualitative study

Background and objective: Australia's health system faces challenges in the management and prevention of chronic disease. Models of primary care delivery, such as the Health Care Home (HCH) model, have been proposed to help meet these challenges. The aim of this study was to explore pre-implementation consumer perspectives of the HCH model. Methods: Qualitative data were collected from focus groups and semi-structured interviews with 38 general practice patients diversified across rural and urban areas and patient demographics. Results: The qualitative findings revealed that consumers were confused about the name of the model. They were sceptical about potential hidden costs associated with the model and concerned about hidden agendas and where things in general practice are headed. Discussion: The findings indicate that consumers may not readily embrace the HCH model. To aid consumer acceptance, the authors recommend the terminology be clarified and the concepts, financial implications and expected outcomes of the model be clearly communicated.