[Multimorbidity in general practice and the Ariadne principles. A person-centred approach].

Abstract

Multimorbidity, defined as the coexistence of two or more chronic conditions in one same individual, has negative consequences for people suffering from it and it poses a real challenge for health systems. In primary care, where most of these patients are attended, the clinical management of multimorbidity can be a complex task due, among others, to the high volume of clinical information that needs to be handled, the scarce scientific evidence available to approach multimorbidity, and the need for coordination among multiple health providers to guarantee continuity of care. Moreover, the adequate implementation of the care plan in these patients requires a process of shared decision making between patient and physician. One of the available tools to support this process, which is specifically directed to patients with multimorbidity in primary care, is described in the present article: the Ariadne principles.