Work

Role and values of Swedish community hospitals through the eyes of general hospital doctors: a qualitative interview study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective To explore how doctors at general hospitals perceive the role and values of community hospitals (CHs) in rural northern Sweden. Design Interview study, using qualitative content analysis. Setting The study was conducted in Norrbotten and Västerbotten counties in northern Sweden and included three general hospitals. Participants Semistructured interviews were conducted during 2025 with nine doctors at general hospitals. Results Three main themes were developed: Offering care close to home, Providing safe care far from the hospital and Being part of the same organisation. CHs were seen as important in providing not only standard primary care but also both inpatient and emergency care close to patients’ homes. CHs were also regarded as crucial for patient safety, with experienced staff seen as particularly important to achieve this. Healthcare provision in northern rural Sweden was described as a shared mission with a shared patient population and mutual challenges. Conclusion Doctors at general hospitals view CHs as essential in providing healthcare in rural northern Sweden. To provide care safely, CHs are dependent on having both organisational and structural preconditions met.

Source: BMJ Open

DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2026-124543

Authors: Emil San Sebastian Hurtig, Ina Asklund, Margareta Brännström, Mante Hedman

Institution: Umeå University

Language: English

Topic: Health Services Management and Policy

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,839