Advancing integrated care evaluation in shifting contexts: blending implementation research with case study design in...

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Evidence on integrated care effectiveness is inconsistent, with challenges in capturing its 'illusive' impact.
• The SUSTAIN project addressed the need for better cross-European integrated care evaluation methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and critically review the experiences of the SUSTAIN project in evaluating integrated care initiatives.
• To advance knowledge and understanding of cross-European integrated care evaluation methodologies.

Main Methods:

• Employed implementation research, utilizing the participative Evidence Integration Triangle (EIT).
• Incorporated a mixed-method, multiple embedded case study design across seven European countries.
• Developed and tested a core set of qualitative and quantitative indicators within four key domains.

Main Results:

• Highlighted the value of the EIT and case study design for integrated care evaluation.
• Identified challenges in data collection with frail older populations and stakeholder involvement.
• Noted difficulties in developing a comprehensive core set of indicators for integrated care.

Conclusions:

• Integrated care should be viewed as a complex intervention and process for evaluation.
• Recommends implementation research methods and case study designs for future evaluations.
• Suggests improvements for data collection with frail populations and cost analysis in integrated care research.