Implementing Integrated Care - Lessons from the Odense Integrated Care Trial

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Integrated care models are challenging to implement across diverse healthcare settings.
• A pilot integrated care model from North West London was scaled up in Odense, Denmark (2013-2016).

Observation:

• A multi-method evaluation assessed implementation and short-term outcomes.
• Data included qualitative interviews, observations, surveys, and quantitative analysis of service use and costs.
• A matched control group was used for comparison.

Findings:

• Despite significant investment and a structured approach, clinical implementation failed.
• Patient service use and costs increased without achieving desired outcomes.
• Key failures included unrealistic timelines and disregarding healthcare professionals' perspectives.

Implications:

• Large-scale integrated care implementation requires careful consideration of professional values and daily practices.
• Thorough needs assessments and small-scale pilot testing are crucial before widespread adoption.
• Future integrated care initiatives must prioritize realistic timelines and stakeholder engagement.