Developing a Research Agenda for Adults with Complex Health and Social Needs

Area of Science:

• Healthcare research
• Public health policy
• Patient advocacy

Background:

• Adults with complex health and social needs (ACHSN) face significant challenges in accessing and coordinating care.
• Existing care models often fail to adequately address the multifaceted needs of this population.
• A structured approach is needed to align stakeholder efforts and research priorities for ACHSN.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a research agenda for improving care for adults with complex health and social needs (ACHSN).
• To foster collaboration and shared understanding among diverse stakeholders involved in ACHSN care.
• To prioritize key health issues, barriers, and interventions for future research.

Main Methods:

• Utilized nominal group technique and stakeholder interviews to gather input.
• Facilitated cross-stakeholder engagement to build consensus on critical issues.
• Conducted stakeholder meetings to review, process, and validate findings.

Main Results:

• Prioritized research areas include mental health, diabetes, and addiction.
• Identified key barriers such as comorbidities, mental health support, and care costs/logistics.
• Revealed both alignment and divergence in stakeholder perspectives on ACHSN care.

Conclusions:

• Future research should focus on prioritized conditions and barriers, integrating multi-stakeholder consensus.
• Emphasized the critical importance of including the patient voice in intervention design.
• Effective interventions require a foundation of shared understanding and active collaboration among all stakeholders.