Development of a catalogue of criteria for successful medical care in nursing homes

Background: Medical care in German nursing homes is predominantly provided by general practitioners. The extent of care provided by specialists is rather limited. The aim of this project was to develop a catalogue of criteria for a successful cooperation between nursing home staff and physicians. Patients and methods: Based on empirical data from a mixed-methods study with qualitative and quantitative elements, which was conducted in 52 Bavarian nursing homes, a catalogue of criteria was developed in a review process in cooperation with a working group consisting of representatives of different professional groups and public authorities. Results: Based on the empirical results six main criteria for successful medical care in nursing homes and actions to be taken for implementation were developed. Conclusions: The essential requirements for successful medical care in nursing homes include binding arrangements between professional groups, a small number of designated contact persons between nursing home staff and physicians, and an appreciative and mutually respectful interaction between all the parties involved.