Unveiling the qualities of a ‘good doctor’: family carers’ and healthcare professionals’ perspective on dementia healthcare in India

Abstract Background The escalating prevalence of dementia in India highlights the need for effective dementia care, particularly in a context marked by limited specialized services and resources. In response to this growing challenge, we sought to contribute to the understanding of societal expectations of multidisciplinary dementia care by exploring the qualities that family carers and healthcare professionals value in dementia care professionals within a multidisciplinary team in India. Methods The aim of the study was to describe the perspectives of carers and healthcare professionals regarding the attributes of a ‘good doctor’ in the context of accessing care for individuals with dementia in India. The research involved qualitative face-to-face interviews with 19 family carers and 25 healthcare professionals in Bengaluru, India, with data collected between March and July 2022. Results Using a thematic analysis framework, four main themes emerged: [1] accessibility and availability [2], empathetic engagement and effective communication [3], knowledge and competency, and [4] systemic reforms and culturally competent multilevel support. Public and professionals’ perceptions of ‘good’ care appeared to have shifted from seeking cures to prioritizing time, counselling, and information, reflecting a more holistic understanding of support needed. Interviewees valued interactions in which they perceived practitioners acting with patience, compassion, respect for dignity of the person with dementia, and professional competence. Effective communication was key. Challenges in accessing quality dementia care included inadequate infrastructure, lack of specialized services, and long waiting times. The importance of multidisciplinary approaches and the need for systemic reforms to enhance service delivery were highlighted. Conclusion Findings highlight a need for training programs for healthcare professionals to foster the values inherent to delivery of person-centered care.