Assessing Healthcare Integration: An Integrated Palliative Care System in Spain.

INTRODUCTION

This study explored the Osona palliative care system, recognized internationally for its good results in managing the chronic patient. The literature notices a gap of models that evaluate integration in healthcare systems. This study assesses the degree of integration of the Osona palliative care system, as well it implements a model that evaluates integration.

METHODS

This research used a qualitative methodology, involving a case study design with three study phases. The first phase involved reviewing primary sources, followed by conducting interviews. The final phase entailed comparing the findings with a theoretical model to analyse and validate the results.

RESULTS

The study found the integrative elements that the Osona system includes such as: multidisciplinary teams, leadership and a palliative care system that is cost-efficient. It also found aspects to improve including collaboration, continuity of care, early patient identification and lack of funding.

DISCUSSION

Our findings suggest that the Osona system has made significant progress toward integration, even though it continues the path of ongoing development in integrated care.

CONCLUSION

This research found that the Osona palliative care system includes many integrating aspects such as multidisciplinary teams, leadership and the system's cost-efficiency. Nevertheless, some aspects need changes such as continuity of care, collaboration, enhanced early patient identification and increase funding. Furthermore, this study provides an example of how to assess integration in a system.