A latent content analysis of barriers and supports to healthcare: Perspectives from caregivers of service members and veterans with military-related traumatic brain injury

Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J79993

Journal:

Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2018 , 33, 5, 342-353

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study identified barriers and supports that caregivers of individuals with military-related traumatic brain injury (TBI) encounter when navigating the military healthcare system. Participants included 45 caregivers of service members and veterans (SMV) who sustained a medically documented mild, moderate, severe, or penetrating TBI. Nine in-person focus group discussions were conducted to identify the most relevant and significant barriers and supports to obtaining services with the military healthcare system as well as within the community. Latent content analysis indicated that caregivers discussed barriers (66 percent) and supports (34 percent) to obtaining care within the military healthcare system and the community. Caregivers most frequently discussed SMVs’ interactions with healthcare, their own interactions with healthcare, family care, and community organizations. The findings suggest that caregivers confront numerous challenges while pursuing healthcare services. Although much of the discussion focused on barriers and perceived unmet needs within the military healthcare system, caregivers also recognized supports within the military healthcare system and general community. Increased attention to accessibility and quality of services, as well as reducing financial burden, can lead to improved health-related quality of life for caregivers and their SMVs.

Author(s):