[Conceptual framework and historical perspective of intermediate care]

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Healthcare Management
• Public Health

Background:

• The demographic shift towards an aging population requires significant adaptations within national healthcare systems.
• Existing healthcare structures often lack specialized services to adequately address the complex needs of older adults.
• There is a growing recognition of the need for integrated care models that bridge acute hospital care and primary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of intermediate care (IC) resources in Spain.
• To analyze the contextual, historical, and conceptual framework of IC.
• To underscore the value of IC for healthcare professionals and managers in addressing the needs of an aging population.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of existing intermediate care resources in Spain.
• Examination of the conceptual underpinnings and historical development of intermediate care.
• Synthesis of findings to highlight the role of IC in geriatric care and health system integration.

Main Results:

• Intermediate care (IC) encompasses a diverse range of services situated between acute hospital and primary care.
• IC facilitates continuity of care through hospitalization, home-based, and outpatient services.
• IC models aim for integral and integrated care for older adults, emphasizing specialized geriatric expertise.

Conclusions:

• Intermediate care is crucial for optimizing the National Health System to accommodate an aging population.
• Effective integration of IC, particularly through "Step Up" and "Step Down" strategies, can prevent unnecessary hospital admissions and facilitate timely discharges.
• Implementing and expanding IC services is vital for ensuring comprehensive and coordinated care for older adults.