Framework of the Split-Session Focus Group Approach
| Step | Comment |
|---|---|
| 1. Conduct a joint session with both physicians and staff members | Some aspects of project implementation required a joint discussion with all staff and physicians present Questioning is focused on aspects of the system that would affect both parties |
| 2. Dismiss staff so they can prepare for patients | Staff members are able to follow regular practice workflow Physicians can be interviewed without staff present and make comments about potentially sensitive staff issues without concerns about offending anyone |
| 3. Interview physicians only | While staff are preparing patients, physicians often have relative down time Aspects affecting only the physicians could be asked and discussed efficiently without staff being onlookers |
| 4. Dismiss physicians to resume clinical care | Physicians can complete patient care as usual and even extend into the noon hour without disruption to the usual work schedule |
| 5. Interview staff only when patient care is completed (eg, before, during, or after lunch) | In the usual workflow, staff complete preparing patients for physicians and are available for noon-time discussions With physicians out of the room, staff may be more comfortable stating opinions about implementation that they might otherwise feel too inhibited to voice if their employer were present |