Barriers and Facilitators to Implementation of Cross-Sectoral Virtual 4-Party Meetings in Emergency Departments. A Qualitative analysis within the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Background Caring for older adults with multiple chronic conditions requires coordination across healthcare sectors. Virtual four-party meetings, involving hospital staff, municipal providers, general practitioners, patients, and relatives, may strengthen cross-sectoral collaboration during hospital admission and discharge. However, implementing digital cross-sectoral interventions in emergency departments is challenging due to fast-paced workflows and organizational complexity. This study explored anticipated implementation determinants for video meetings in emergency department settings to support early implementation planning. Methods In this qualitative pre-implementation study, healthcare professionals from hospitals, municipalities, and general practice participated in interdisciplinary workshops at two Danish emergency departments. A SWOT-informed approach was used to identify perceived strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Findings were analyzed deductively using four domains of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research: Innovation, Outer Setting, Inner Setting, and Individuals. Results 38 professionals participated. 18 constructs were identified across the four domains. Anticipated barriers included the complexity of emergency departments’ workflows, short admission times, limited availability of general practitioners, poor interoperability between hospital and municipal electronic record systems, and insufficient resources for cross-sectoral coordination. Anticipated facilitators included perceived relative advantage through improved collaboration and patient involvement, relational trust between sectors, and leadership engagement. Participants highlighted the importance of reliable digital platforms, structured facilitation, and equity-focused approaches to ensure inclusive participation. Conclusions Virtual four-party meetings are seen as innovative but complex, with potential to enhance cross-sector coordination in emergency departments. Its success relies on leadership backing, technical integration, and focused strategies to overcome organizational and digital challenges for broader adoption.
Source: Research Square
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204580648