Factors impacting the delivery of contextualized care in serious illness: a focus group study with healthcare professionals

Delivering contextualized care for patients with serious illness is not primarily limited by individual willingness or basic capability but by environmental and systemic feasibility. Sustainable implementation requires multilevel strategies targeting team culture, interprofessional collaboration, and a supportive infrastructure. Moving from individual intent to shared norms may improve both patient outcomes and resource efficiency. Key steps include continuous education, embedding contextual care in team culture, adapting workflows and documentation, and integrating contextualization into quality measures and incentives.