Primary care-based integrated dementia care models abroad: a scoping review

Abstract

ObjectiveTo systematically review research of integrated dementia care models in primary care abroad, summarize the main dimensions and key elements of the models, and provide a reference for the construction of community-based integrated dementia care models in China. MethodsFollowing the scoping review methodology, literature on integrated dementia care models in primary care published from database inception through July 1, 2023, was searched in Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases. The literature was screened and characteristics extracted and synthesized. ResultsA total of 3 357 articles were retrieved and 25 were finally included. The integrated dementia care models were categorized into collaborative care plans, memory clinics and care networks. The dimensions of integration focused mainly on the service and professional levels, with the least emphasis on the system, functional and normative levels. Effectiveness was mainly reflected in improved health outcomes for patients, caregiver burden, and accessibility of services, but was related to the form of implementation. The main barriers to the implementation of integrated care models included lack of funding, inconsistent payment methods, short of common information technology platforms, insufficient human resource development, and inadequate skills among general practitioners. The relationship between the models and the local primary care system was mainly embedded. ConclusionThe types of integrated dementia care models in primary care abroad are diverse and their effects vary. They provide a reference for building community-based integrated care models for older adults with dementia in China.

Keywords

• dementia
• integrated care
• primary care
• rainbow model
• scoping review