Box 1.

An example of open-ended questions asked as part of the semi-structured interview guide

How important do you think it is for COPD patients to have follow-up appointments with their GP after an acute exacerbation? What are the important issues that you would like to address at a follow-up visit following hospitalisation due to an acute exacerbation of COPD? What is your experience with the transition of COPD patients from hospital to community care following acute exacerbation? What challenges do you come across when delivering evidence-based care for these patients? What strategies would you suggest to improve the care of COPD patients following hospitalisation due to an acute exacerbation?

COPD = chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.