Guest editorial: Advancing integrated care with digital health innovation issue editorial

Abstract

The proposed framework, being applied in Finland, acts as a set of standards to format data to allow it to move from one place to another (known as the “middle layer” in interoperable systems) bringing together different data elements to support a Virtual Care Operator model – an “information-focused approach to integration, coordination and continuity of care.” Domains in this model focus on technology, team organization, program support, integration of information systems, performance and quality, with maturity assessed on how well the model is enabling integration of service delivery around coordination of activities and other key issues like equity. Aird and colleagues present an implementation focused evaluation, using a multi-method approach to explore the roles and use of a new system of information exchange between one hospital and one long-term care home in Canada. Stamenova et al. evaluate a virtual visit program put in place to provide access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic using a convergent mixed-methods design which draws on usage data, surveys and interviews with patients and provider users of virtual care systems across different units within a hospital.