{"title":"Volunteer-supported Care Transition Interventions for People Living with Dementia: A Secondary Analysis of a Scoping Review.","authors":"Sidra Bharmal, Michelle Nelson, Marianne Saragosa","doi":"10.5334/ijic.9056","DOIUrl":"10.5334/ijic.9056","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Rising dementia rates can worsen the strain on the healthcare system and increase hospital admissions. Hospitals decondition persons living with dementia (PLWD), for which volunteers can offer support. We reviewed existing literature on volunteer-led/supported care transition services available to PLWD, assessing PLWD representation and the extent to which their needs are addressed.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a secondary analysis of a scoping review examining volunteer and third-sector personnel providing post-discharge support. Of the review's 49 articles, we considered services offered to PLWD and persons with cognitive impairment (PWCI). The Camberwell Assessment of Needs for the Elderly (CANE) guided the thematic analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Four of our nine selected articles highlighted services supporting PLWD, though only one was developed explicitly for them. The most common themes of needs targeted or met were physical health (n = 7), company (n = 7), food (n = 6), medications (n = 6), and psychological distress (n = 6).</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>We described the characteristics and outcomes of these volunteer-led/supported care transition interventions. Comparing the leading PLWD needs against those the interventions primarily addressed revealed potential oversight of their most critical needs. However, volunteers remain valuable in supporting discharged community-dwelling PLWD.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>In hospital-to-home care transitions, volunteer-led/supported transitional care models benefit PLWD and their caregivers. However, few available interventions explicitly focus on this patient population. Therefore, this is an opportunity to understand better how volunteers and third-sector organizations could optimally support those living during care transitions through an integrated care approach.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"16"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12101112/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144142526","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Emili Vela, Joan Carles Contel, Anna Vila, Sebastià J Santaeugènia, Rosa Suñol, Jordi Amblàs-Novellas, Conxita Barbeta, Aina Plaza, Pilar Hilarión
{"title":"Impact of Integrating Social and Health Home Care Services in Catalonia: A Retrospective Cohort-Based Two-Year Study.","authors":"Emili Vela, Joan Carles Contel, Anna Vila, Sebastià J Santaeugènia, Rosa Suñol, Jordi Amblàs-Novellas, Conxita Barbeta, Aina Plaza, Pilar Hilarión","doi":"10.5334/ijic.8909","DOIUrl":"10.5334/ijic.8909","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>This study aimed to evaluate the impact of integrating social and health home care services (HCSs) on institutionalization, survival, and utilization of health and social care services and associated expenditures.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Retrospective study including all individuals who initiated social HCSs for dependent people in Catalonia during 2018-2019 with a paired case-control, pre/post design (differences-in-differences), using integrated data from the Autonomy and Dependency Care System database and the Catalan Health Surveillance System. Individuals were categorized based on their perceived level of integration in the residing areas (high level: Case Group, and low level: Control Group).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We included 4381 cases and 13143 matched controls. HCS integration decreased the risk of institutionalization in a nursing home by 19.5% and the length of stays in any center by 7.7%. Integration increased day centers' use by 23.7% and primary care service utilization by 3.0%, and also reduced associated social expenditures after HCS initiation by 19.1% and overall social and health expenditures by 2.6%.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Integration of social and health HCSs resulted in a shift from institutionalization services to primary care services and day care centers, prolonging recipients' lives in their homes.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"15"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12083072/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144093698","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Kelly Hall, Darshini Ayton, Helen Skouteris, Robin Miller, Catherine Needham
{"title":"Realising the Power of Academic-Voluntary Sector Partnerships to Integrated Care Research.","authors":"Kelly Hall, Darshini Ayton, Helen Skouteris, Robin Miller, Catherine Needham","doi":"10.5334/ijic.9101","DOIUrl":"10.5334/ijic.9101","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise organisations (VCSEs) bring valuable knowledge of local health and care needs and have skills in engaging underserved communities. This makes them ideal partners for integrated health and care researchers. Yet, they are often excluded from research. This paper reflects on the benefits and challenges of VCSE-researcher collaborations and shares examples from Australia and the UK of how these have been overcome in practice. We explore how integrated care researchers can work with VCSEs to empower the voice of lived experience, bring greater inclusivity in research methodologies and deliver meaningful findings within local and diverse contexts.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"14"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12082444/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144093722","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Enhancing Integrated Care Through the Voluntary and Community Sector: A Lean Management and Dynamic Capabilities Perspective.","authors":"Huay Ling Tay","doi":"10.5334/ijic.9014","DOIUrl":"10.5334/ijic.9014","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) is a critical contributor to integrated care, bridging gaps between health and social care services. However, operational inefficiencies and challenges in adapting to dynamic care environments hinder its full potential. This paper clarifies the perspective-drawn from research and practice-on applying Lean Management principles and Dynamic Capabilities Theory to enhance VCS operations. Using practical vignettes, it illustrates how these frameworks can improve volunteer recruitment, retention, and resource allocation, fostering efficiency and adaptability. Recommendations focus on specific aspects of integrated care, including service coordination, crisis adaptability, and volunteer management, leading to better patient outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"13"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12082445/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144093694","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Wilhelm Linder, Richard Ssegonja, Inna Feldman, Robert Sarkadi Kristiansson, Jamile Marchi, Ulrika Winblad
{"title":"Inter-Organizational Coordination to Improve Patient Outcomes in Multimorbid Older Patients Following Hospital Discharge - a Systematic Review.","authors":"Wilhelm Linder, Richard Ssegonja, Inna Feldman, Robert Sarkadi Kristiansson, Jamile Marchi, Ulrika Winblad","doi":"10.5334/ijic.9018","DOIUrl":"10.5334/ijic.9018","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Health and social care systems are constantly undergoing major reforms to meet the rising demands of an increasing proportion of older patients, with many such reforms aiming to improve integration and coordination. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the evidence on inter-organizational coordination interventions between hospitals and outpatient (health- and social care) providers for older patients with complex needs during- and after hospital discharge.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A systematic search of four databases was performed to identify interventions of inter-organizational coordination at hospital discharge for older patients with complex needs. The retrieved literature was analyzed using a narrative synthesis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Twelve studies were included (seven randomized controlled trials and five non-randomized intervention studies). The most common intervention components were; needs assessments, dedicated care coordinators and multi-professional teams. Findings show that inter-organizational coordination could decrease- or even increase readmission rates, with similar findings for hospital length of stay and mortality. Furthermore, inter-organizational coordination seemed to have a positive impact on quality of life and activities of daily living.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Inter-organizational coordination could potentially reduce health-care utilization and improve quality of life for older patients with complex needs. However, the findings remain uncertain and further research is warranted.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"12"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12082463/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144093703","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Liedewij Bogaert, Bart Depreitere, Sanne Peters, Tinne Thys, Simon Brumagne, Sebastiaan Schelfaut, Koen Peers, Lieven Moke, Wim Dankaerts, Peter Van Wambeke, Ann Spriet, Thijs Willem Swinnen, Lotte Janssens
{"title":"The Infinity Loop of Healthcare Innovation: Development of an Integrated Rehabilitation Pathway for Lumbar Fusion Surgery Through Design Thinking.","authors":"Liedewij Bogaert, Bart Depreitere, Sanne Peters, Tinne Thys, Simon Brumagne, Sebastiaan Schelfaut, Koen Peers, Lieven Moke, Wim Dankaerts, Peter Van Wambeke, Ann Spriet, Thijs Willem Swinnen, Lotte Janssens","doi":"10.5334/ijic.7765","DOIUrl":"10.5334/ijic.7765","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Integrated care pathways may help to bridge evidence-practice gaps. To overcome the limitations of traditional researcher-centred and linear pathway development frameworks, a more user-centred approach is needed. In this study, we propose design thinking as a framework for developing integrated care pathways, specifically targeting rehabilitation of patients undergoing lumbar fusion surgery.</p><p><strong>Description: </strong>From 2017 to 2022, we utilized the design thinking infinity loop to create an evidence-based rehabilitation pathway for patients undergoing lumbar fusion surgery. This approach consisted of five phases: (1) empathizing with user needs, (2) defining problem statements, (3) ideating through meta-analysis, expert consensus, and brainstorming, (4) prototyping the pathway, and (5) testing its effectiveness and implementability.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>Through the proposed design thinking phases, innovative elements such as prehabilitation, early mobilization, and consistent communication emerged as the building blocks of the new rehabilitation pathway, addressing the needs of both patients and healthcare providers. These results serve as a practical guide for applying design thinking in developing integrated care pathways.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Design thinking, represented by the infinity loop, presents a user-centred framework for developing integrated care pathways, and has the potential to effectively bridge the gap between evidence and clinical practice.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"11"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12082458/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144093748","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Analysis of the Relationship Between Organizational Learning and Healthcare Integration.","authors":"Roberto Nuño-Solinís","doi":"10.5334/ijic.9681","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5334/ijic.9681","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This thesis explores the relationship between organizational learning and integrated care in health systems. Through a mixed-methods approach, it analyzes how healthcare organizations develop learning capabilities and how these contribute to the effectiveness of integrated care models. These findings indicate that fostering a culture of continuous learning enhances care coordination and patient outcomes. However, structural and cultural barriers may hinder learning processes. This study provides insights for policymakers and healthcare managers on leveraging organizational learning to improve integrated care implementation.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"10"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12063595/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143999737","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Allan Abbott, Malin Forsbrand, Thomas Torstensson, Ann-Charlotte Lindström, Gudrun Greim, Sammy Klaff, Åsa Niper, Marc Karlsson, Christian Simonsberg, Mimmi Engström, Tommy Olsson, Annelie Petersson, Per Ekman, Peter Försth, Gösta Ullmark, Steven J Linton
{"title":"Development of a Person-Centred Coordinated Care Pathway in Swedish Healthcare for Low Back Pain.","authors":"Allan Abbott, Malin Forsbrand, Thomas Torstensson, Ann-Charlotte Lindström, Gudrun Greim, Sammy Klaff, Åsa Niper, Marc Karlsson, Christian Simonsberg, Mimmi Engström, Tommy Olsson, Annelie Petersson, Per Ekman, Peter Försth, Gösta Ullmark, Steven J Linton","doi":"10.5334/ijic.8940","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5334/ijic.8940","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>This project aimed to develop a Person-Centred Co-ordinated Care (P3C) pathway for low back pain (LBP).</p><p><strong>Description: </strong>A national working group was formed consisting of representatives from all regional healthcare organisations in Sweden and included all relevant healthcare professions, academia, and patient organisations. A mixed method iterative design and consensus approach was applied in the development of the P3C pathway.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>As a foundation, patient interviews along with a review of literature were conducted investigating the evidence base for healthcare interventions, earlier regional care programs/pathways and guidelines in Sweden as well as patient experiences and challenges with healthcare for LBP. Updated evidence-based clinical recommendations, tools supporting the practical use of the national P3C pathway and national healthcare data registry-based quality outcome indicators were then developed. Thereafter, an open consultation period provided review and feedback for final revisions and consensus.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Essential factors for integrating best praxis according to scientific evidence and patient and healthcare professional perspectives were identified to establish a Swedish national P3C pathway for LBP. This provides a novel and innovative example of feasible methodology applicable in the international context. Future research will evaluate potential improvements in healthcare quality outcomes and effectiveness of dissemination and implementation strategies.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"8"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12063581/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144009524","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Marta Lima-Serrano, Regina Allande-Cussó, Ana Magdalena Vargas-Martínez, Georges Karam, Lea El-Korh, Ana María Porcel-Gálvez
{"title":"Testing the TEC-MED-Integrated Transcultural Social-Ethical-Care Model for Older People in the Mediterranean Basin: A Mixed-Method Quasiexperimental Study Protocol.","authors":"Marta Lima-Serrano, Regina Allande-Cussó, Ana Magdalena Vargas-Martínez, Georges Karam, Lea El-Korh, Ana María Porcel-Gálvez","doi":"10.5334/ijic.9017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5334/ijic.9017","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The global shift toward aging populations, driven by advancements in the economy, healthcare, and society, has transformed once-lethal diseases into chronic conditions. Complex patient management scenarios emerge through this trend, coupled with demographic changes, given that multiple chronic diseases coexist within an individual. The TEC-MED project, which spans multiple countries, aims to evaluate whether the TEC-MED model can improve the quality of life and reduce care dependency among older adults in the Mediterranean region.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study employs a mixed-method approach including a longitudinal analytical quasiexperimental design, economic evaluation, and qualitative techniques such as interviews and focus groups. The sample includes at least 20,000 older adults and their caregivers from the Mediterranean basin countries. Quantitative data analysis encompasses descriptive and bivariate statistical analyses, regression models, and economic evaluation, whereas qualitative analysis involves discourse analysis and thematic categorization.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The TEC-MED project's focus on integrating social and health care is expected to improve health outcomes and quality of life for older people and their caregivers. The anticipated outcomes will contribute valuable insights into the TEC-MED model's effectiveness in promoting person-centered care and addressing global challenges posed by aging populations.</p><p><strong>Trial registration: </strong>NCT06184178 (ClinicalTrials.gov).</p><p><strong>Date of registration: </strong>27/12/2023.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"9"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12063580/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143982787","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lotte Vanneste, Isabelle Heymans, Jean-Luc Belche, Ine Huybrechts, Dominique Van de Velde, Patricia De Vriendt, Reini Haverals, Dagje Boeykens, Sibyl Anthierens, Pauline Boeckxstaens
{"title":"Implementation of Goal-Oriented Care in Belgium: Experiences From 25 Primary Care Organisations.","authors":"Lotte Vanneste, Isabelle Heymans, Jean-Luc Belche, Ine Huybrechts, Dominique Van de Velde, Patricia De Vriendt, Reini Haverals, Dagje Boeykens, Sibyl Anthierens, Pauline Boeckxstaens","doi":"10.5334/ijic.8983","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5334/ijic.8983","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Goal oriented care (GOC) and its readiness for implementation has been described in scientific literature, but research on GOC implementation in primary care organisations is limited. This study aims to capture the experiences of primary care organisations in implementing GOC in their context.</p><p><strong>Method: </strong>A qualitative study, with data triangulation, was conducted. Primary care organisations that experimented with the implementation of GOC in their context were followed. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Seven themes supporting GOC implementation were identified. Project leaders from the primary care organisations experienced that related concepts can serve as a foundation for initiating the implementation of GOC. The implementation process is an iterative and reflective process, with resistance viewed as an integral part of the process, offering opportunities for reflection. Collaborating with partners, especially the active participation of patients, was seen as a facilitator. Furthermore, having a clear vision for GOC is necessary. Projects invested in adapting tools and processes to align with GOC and provided relevant training.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusion: </strong>The findings led to recommendations that can guide the implementation of future GOC projects. Effective implementation extends beyond the development and adaptation of tools; it requires translating theoretical concepts into practical application and creating a shared vision on GOC.</p>","PeriodicalId":14049,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Integrated Care","volume":"25 2","pages":"7"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12050686/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143993999","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}