Using a focus group methodology to gain input from people who use home and community based services

Abstract

Gaining input from people who use home and community based services is important for determining the usefulness of services and clarifying future direction. Many of the commonly used methods have drawbacks when gaining input from people served. The current paper describes a focus group process that has been used to gain input from people who use home and community based services. The focus group process included designing the focus groups, their implementation, and feedback to stakeholders. Insights are presented and have implications for home and community based administrators, providers, and health care specialists.