Ethical conflicts in community health care: a qualitative study of individual and family experiences

Abstract

Background: Ethical conflicts experienced by health care clients and their families can generate feelings of stress and anxiety, compromise relationships, and lead to fragmented care. Despite the increased use of community health care services in recent years, very little is known about the types of ethical conflicts affecting community health care clients and their families, and hence further research is needed. Purpose: The two-fold purpose of this research practicum project was to increase understanding of the types of ethical conflicts experienced by community health care recipients and their family members, and to gain qualitative research experience by engaging in each aspect of the research process. Methods: Practicum objectives were met by: 1) reviewing existing literature on ethical conflicts; 2) planning and conducting a qualitative, exploratory study; 3) working collaboratively with community health care clients, colleagues, and mentors; and 4) disseminating my research findings. Study Findings: Ethical conflicts involved issues with: 1) accessibility to care, 2) quality of care, 3) compassion and respect, and 4) privacy. Management efforts included: 1) using personal connections, 2) reporting concerns, 3) switching health care providers, and 4) doing nothing. Practicum Conclusions: During this research practicum project, I advanced my qualitative research skills and generated new data on ethical conflicts that may inform community health care providers and other key stakeholders. In addition, my study design establishes the basis for future research aimed at further exploring ethical conflicts and management strategies, and identifying support needs at the community level.