Key issues in building a continuum of care

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Nursing Practice
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Failure to achieve continuity of care significantly impacts U.S. healthcare delivery.
• There is a growing recognition of the need for seamless patient journeys across healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationship between continuity of care and the broader concept of a continuum of care.
• To identify actionable strategies for advanced practice nurses, educators, and organizations to enhance care continuity.
• To address key issues hindering the development of a comprehensive continuum of care.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of continuity of care and continuum of care.
• Examination of three critical areas: debunking continuity of care myths, leveraging financial mechanisms, and developing essential skills for advanced practice nurses.
• Literature review and synthesis of current practices and challenges.

Main Results:

• Continuity of care is often misunderstood, with prevalent myths needing to be addressed.
• Financial incentives can be strategically employed to foster the development of integrated care systems.
• Advanced practice nurses require specific skills to effectively build and manage a continuum of care.

Conclusions:

• Addressing myths, utilizing financial strategies, and enhancing nurse competencies are crucial for improving care continuity.
• A coordinated continuum of care is essential for effective healthcare.
• Advanced practice nurses play a pivotal role in advancing the development of integrated healthcare systems.