Challenges in maintenance haemodialysis care: A qualitative study from the perspectives of patients and healthcare providers at Gia Lai General Hospital

Abstract

Maintenance haemodialysis is a renal replacement therapy performed regularly two to three times per week to maintain homeostasis and sustain life in patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease [1]. This study describes the difficulties and challenges of maintenance haemodialysis from the perspectives of patients and healthcare providers at Gia Lai General Hospital between January and August 2025. A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed. Semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 patients receiving maintenance haemodialysis and 6 healthcare providers. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim; the data were independently coded by two researchers and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Data saturation was considered achieved when no new codes emerged across two to three consecutive interviews. Five themes were identified: (1) economic burden and the perception of being a burden on the family; (2) family as the primary source of material and emotional support; (3) limited and fragmented community support; (4) impacts on mental health; and (5) systemic constraints and healthcare staff efforts. Local contextual factors, including mountainous terrain and low educational levels, transport-related barriers to accessing services, negatively affecting treatment adherence. Maintenance haemodialysis in Gia Lai presents multidimensional challenges. Integrated interventions are needed, including strengthening system capacity, expanding psychological support, and enhancing financial assistance mechanisms to improve treatment adherence and patients’ quality of life.