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The reimagination of sustainable integrated care in Ontario, Canada.

Authors :
Embuldeniya G
Gutberg J
Wodchis WP
Source :
Health policy (Amsterdam, Netherlands) [Health Policy] 2021 Jan; Vol. 125 (1), pp. 83-89. Date of Electronic Publication: 2020 Nov 07.
Publication Year :
2021

Abstract

Purpose/setting: To encourage clinical and financial efficiency, the Canadian province of Ontario initiated an integrated care program - Integrated Funding Models (IFMs) that required collaboration and coordination across acute and post-acute care sectors. This research shows how program implementers went beyond policy-makers' original designs, to make integrated care sustainable for chronic diseases.<br />Methods: Forty-five interviews were conducted with program participants at three chronic disease programs, as well as with policymakers. Interviews were conducted over two phases; during early implementation in 2016, and as programs matured in 2018. Data were analyzed through a cultural constructivist lens to understand how participants shaped programs.<br />Findings: Participants desired greater accountability and control. Participants in the first program wanted localized control over decision-making. In the second, participants initiated greater control over financial uncertainty. In the third program, hospital participants sought greater control over community care. Participants across programs simultaneously wanted integrated care to be expanded holistically, spatially, and temporally for patients, extending the length of care, and expanding the spaces in which care was provided. Findings also suggest a gap between program implementers' and policymakers' conceptualizations of integrated care.<br />Conclusion: This work shows how IFMs were reimagined in ways that transcended their original conceptualization as spatially and temporally delimited initiatives aimed at improving coordination and efficiency. It has practical implications for those facing sustainability challenges in other contexts.<br />Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors report no declarations of interest.<br /> (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1872-6054
Volume :
125
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Health policy (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
33223222
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthpol.2020.11.001