Det är mig det handlar om ? en intervjustudie om patienters upplevelse av möjlighet till delaktighet
Background: In Sweden it is a legal right for patients to have the possibility to participate in their own care. Several studies highlight the importance of a good relationship, good communication and good cooperation in order to increase a sense of security and thus the possibility of participation. One way to increase patients' ability to influence and participate can be to adapt person-centered care. This moves the focus from the patient's illness to the patient and his/her resources. Aim: The aim of this study is to describe patients' experiences of the possibility to actively participate in decisions regarding its care and treatment at surgical wards. Method: Interviews with a semi- structured approach will be performed. The results will be analyzed using a phenomenological hermeneutical method. A pilot study with three informants is completed. All informants gave their approval to participate after receiving verbal and written information about the aim of the study. Result: The analysis resulted in four categories that describe patients' experiences: information/communication, cooperation, encounter and continuity. Discussion: The patients took a passive role as receivers of information. The medical decision was handed over to the doctors since patients knowledge was lacking. To enhance the possibility of participation, it is important to promote relation-ship, communication and cooperation. Caregivers need to invite to a dialogue with the patient and listen to the patients' narrative.