Abstract
A dementia care coordinator (DCC) service has recently been implemented across Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB). DCCs are provided at the primary care network (PCN) level and work closely with GP practice teams. The service is intended to help service users navigate the care system and provide proactive support to mitigate crisis points. However, the value of this service from key stakeholder perspectives is not yet known.
To understand: 1) how the DCC service works, for whom, and in what circumstances; and 2) identify outcomes, resource implications, and costs.
The study uses mixed-methods realist evaluation with an embedded economic component. Data collection includes: questionnaires, service provider metrics, and qualitative interviews with healthcare practitioners and service users. Interpretive comparative analysis and narrative synthesis including evaluation of service costs against outcomes will produce a refined final programme theory. Patient and public involvement have been consulted throughout.
Preliminary results indicate that when embedded in a local practice, healthcare practitioners including GPs welcome DCC involvement. DCCs act as community lynchpins, bridging service users to appropriate care pathways. The service may be capable of increasing diagnosis rates and reducing crisis points. However, caseloads are currently untamed. Therefore, the service and its workforce are becoming over-stretched.
This evaluation describes preliminary findings from a recently implemented DCC service in Kent and Medway ICB. There is a crucial need to enhance the support of this workforce in order to ensure sustainability of this service. These findings will inform service development and future investment decisions.