Care professionals' experiences within a multidisciplinary and cross-sectorial intervention for childbearing women and families in vulnerable positions: a focus group study

Purpose: The aim of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of care professionals in multidisciplinary and cross-sectorial collaboration, and their experiences of interactions with childbearing families within the context of the FACAM project.

Methods: Eight focus groups were conducted with 32 multidisciplinary care professionals working with childbearing families in vulnerable positions. A thematic analysis was conducted, with positioning theory as the theoretical framework focusing on storylines, positioning and speech-acts.

Results: Two overall themes were constructed. Theme one: Cross-sectorial collaboration and the influence on the care provided. Theme two: Interaction with and assessment of women and families' care needs and their influence on the care provided, with three subthemes; a) Establishment of a trustful relationship, b) Assessments of vulnerable positions in relation to function in everyday life, c) Interactions with the woman or family depending on their needs.

Conclusion: Care professionals found needs-adapted and tailored care meaningful. Well-functioning multidisciplinary and cross-sectorial collaboration was important to support the families.