Enhanced Care for Patients With Complex Multimorbidity in Primary Care

Introduction Patients living with a chronic disease often have more than one chronic condition, which is referred to as multimorbidity. Multimorbidity is associated with decreased quality of life, functional decline, polypharmacy, and increased healthcare utilization. Patients with multimorbidity often have a high symptom- and treatment burden, and have to attend multiple appointments, often at numerous locations, and comply with complex or even conflicting advice and drug regimens, resulting in an increased risk of depression and low quality of life. In Denmark, general practice is the key organizational setting in terms of offering people with complex multimorbidity integrated, longitudinal, patient-centered care. However, caring for patients with multimorbidity is a complex and time-consuming task and the organization of chronic care in general practice is organized around individual conditions. Research question The objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a complex intervention consisting of a prolonged consultation and a strengthened cross-sectoral collaboration for patients with complex multimorbidity listed in participating practices on the patients' health-related quality of life, health and use of health-services. Methods Design: A pragmatic, adaptive, cluster-randomized, non-blinded, parallel-group trial conducted in general practice in all regions in Denmark evaluating a complex intervention.