Supply of Medical Aids in home Mechanical Ventilation: needs-Based and Safe?: The Views of Stakeholders Related to the Care Process on the Current Status and Perspectives

Introduction The supply of medical aids is essential for patients with home mechanical ventilation. However, it is largely unclear to what extent this supply is needs-based and safe. Methods As part of a health services research project, 20 expert interviews were conducted with a heterogeneous group of stakeholders related to ventilation-specific medical aids supply. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results The interviewees pointed to challenges and problems regarding structural, procedural and personal aspects at all levels of medical aids supply. In particular, deficits in task performance, coordination and cooperation between the stakeholders and authorities involved became apparent. Such might result in avoidable safety risks and hinder needs-oriented supply of medical aids. Conclusion Further development in ventilation-Associated medical aids supply is needed, with focus on evidence-based practices, a comprehensive, cross-sectoral and cross-professional design as well as systematic evaluation.