Clinical empathy and relational continuity mitigate care fragmentation for patients with multiple long-term conditions: a qualitative study

The authors aimed to explore how patients with multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) and their carers experience and perceive care within fragmented healthcare systems. Through qualitative analysis of focus groups, they found that clinical empathy and relational continuity are crucial in mitigating care fragmentation, while service changes intended to improve efficiency often misalign with patients' needs, leading to increased burdens on patients and their families. The study highlights the importance of personal interactions and relationships in shaping care quality and patient engagement.