Identifying Individuals for Integrated Multidisciplinary Care: Lessons from Finland

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Social Care Policy

Background:

• Finnish health and social care systems utilize various models and tools for identifying individuals needing integrated multidisciplinary care.
• Existing identification practices are often fragmented and inconsistent across different regions and organizations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and discuss the current models and tools used in Finland for identifying individuals who could benefit from integrated multidisciplinary care.
• To evaluate the effectiveness and consistency of these identification methods within the Finnish health and social care sector.

Main Methods:

• A study was conducted involving mapping and examining identification models and tools in Finnish health and social care organizations.
• Research methods included electronic surveys and structured interviews to gather data on current practices.

Main Results:

• While established identification models exist and are generally viewed positively, only one-third of organizations have adopted a common model or tool.
• Identification criteria and practices vary significantly by region, municipality, and organization, leading to unsystematic and insufficient identification.
• This inconsistency can hinder individuals from accessing beneficial integrated care.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for standardized models and tools to identify individuals who are outside the service system, new clients, and existing service users.
• Developing competence and fostering a shared working culture are essential for effective multidisciplinary collaboration and the successful implementation of integrated care identification models.