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. 2025 May 2;25(2):7.
doi: 10.5334/ijic.8983. eCollection 2025 Apr-Jun.

Implementation of Goal-Oriented Care in Belgium: Experiences From 25 Primary Care Organisations

Lotte Vanneste  1 , Isabelle Heymans  2 , Jean-Luc Belche  2 , Ine Huybrechts  3   4 , Dominique Van de Velde  5 , Patricia De Vriendt  6   7 , Reini Haverals  1 , Dagje Boeykens  1   5 , Sibyl Anthierens  3 , Pauline Boeckxstaens  1
Affiliations

Implementation of Goal-Oriented Care in Belgium: Experiences From 25 Primary Care Organisations

Lotte Vanneste et al. Int J Integr Care. .

Abstract

Introduction: Goal oriented care (GOC) and its readiness for implementation has been described in scientific literature, but research on GOC implementation in primary care organisations is limited. This study aims to capture the experiences of primary care organisations in implementing GOC in their context.

Method: A qualitative study, with data triangulation, was conducted. Primary care organisations that experimented with the implementation of GOC in their context were followed. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results: Seven themes supporting GOC implementation were identified. Project leaders from the primary care organisations experienced that related concepts can serve as a foundation for initiating the implementation of GOC. The implementation process is an iterative and reflective process, with resistance viewed as an integral part of the process, offering opportunities for reflection. Collaborating with partners, especially the active participation of patients, was seen as a facilitator. Furthermore, having a clear vision for GOC is necessary. Projects invested in adapting tools and processes to align with GOC and provided relevant training.

Discussion and conclusion: The findings led to recommendations that can guide the implementation of future GOC projects. Effective implementation extends beyond the development and adaptation of tools; it requires translating theoretical concepts into practical application and creating a shared vision on GOC.

Keywords: goal-oriented care; implementation; integrated care; primary care.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have no competing interests to declare.

Figures

Timeline of key data collection moments
Figure 1
Timeline of key data collection moments.
List of 29 concepts related to goal-oriented care
Figure 2
Concepts related to GOC (this list is non exhaustive).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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