Innovative socio-sanitary rehabilitation models in central nervous system disorders: a systematic review

Because neurological disorders profoundly affect patients' lives, care models are increasingly oriented toward an integrated clinical and socio-sanitary approach. This being said, the actual context of this integration and the literature itself presents notable gaps and inconsistencies. The aim of this study was to review the existing literature to provide an overview of the current implementation of these services, while identifying gaps and potential areas for improvement.

We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines including only peer-reviewed articles retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science that focused on neurological conditions and socio-sanitary services. For each peer-reviewed study, we identified specific characteristics to review them.

Sixty-four studies were included, with stroke as the most frequently studied condition, followed by Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injury. Most of the services were embedded within public health systems with a prevalence of home or territorial-setting.

The review identifies promising evidence of positive impacts associated with socio-sanitary services, particularly in relation to functional outcomes, patient satisfaction and support for community living. At the same time there are important gaps in their implementation, integration, and the methodological consistency of existing studies. Across multiple settings, continuity of care appears fragmented, and case management functions are inconsistently implemented or, in some cases, entirely absent. Together, these findings suggest that while socio-sanitary models can offer meaningful benefits, persistent gaps in coordination and follow-up represent key structural barriers to achieving effective and sustainable integration.