Mapping the rehabilitation journey of patients with traumatic brain injury in China: a qualitative study

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation involves a complex, multi-stage journey across various healthcare settings. However, current research still lacks a comprehensive understanding of this process from the patient's perspective. A detailed mapping of the patient journey is crucial for designing targeted and effective rehabilitation strategies. Design: A qualitative interpretative research design was performed and the standards for reporting qualitative research (SRQR) has been used. Objective: To construct a patient journey map visualizing the rehabilitation care experiences of adult TBI patients, identify key pain points and service gaps, and provide recommendations for service optimization. Methods: A qualitative interpretative research design was employed, guided by the Patient-Centered Healthcare Accessibility Framework. Using purposive sampling, 26 TBI patients were recruited from five healthcare settings in a major Chinese city between February and July 2024. Data were collected through 78 semi-structured interviews and 156 h of non-participant observation across acute care, rehabilitation, and community settings. Thematic analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke's six-phase framework, followed by process mapping and journey visualization. Results: = 6), with service discontinuity affecting 84% of participants. Conclusion: The TBI rehabilitation journey is characterized by complexity, non-linearity, and significant service fragmentation. Findings highlight the urgent need for integrated, patient-centered care models with enhanced care coordination, standardized pathways, and comprehensive family support systems. The patient journey map provides a framework for systematic service improvement and policy development.