Author: Beland F, Bergman H, Lebel P, Clarfield A M, Tousignant, Contandriopoulos A and Dallaire L
Journal: Journal of Gerontology, 2006
Volume/pages: Vol 61A(4), pp367-373

About the study
In this Canadian study the authors used a randomized controlled trial to explore the impact of SIPA (System of Integrated Care for Older Persons). SIPA consists of community-based multidisciplinary teams delivering integrated health and social care, and coordinated hospital and nursing home care. It aims to meet people’s needs quickly and avoid unnecessary hospital and nursing home admissions. Routine data and structured interviews were used to evaluate the system.

Findings
606 patients received SIPA, while 624 were in the control group. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of health status or mortality. Overall SIPA was cost-neutral, with community costs being higher while institutional costs were lower. Both caregiver and patient satisfaction were higher in the SIPA group. There were no significant differences in hospital stays, except for the group who went on to an alternate level of care, for which there was a significant 50% reduction.

Key messages

• An integrated system for older people can help to reconfigure care and reduce possible “bed blocking” without increasing costs
• A transparent, integrated system can increase carers’ confidence and satisfaction in the support being provided