Author: Abendstern M, Reilly S, Hughes J, Venables D and Challis D
Journal: International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 2006
Volume/pages: Vol 21, pp77-85

About the study
A postal survey approach was used to compare the quality of dementia care provided by multidisciplinary teams to that provided by single disciplinary teams in this UK-based study. The quality of the service was measured against quality indicators developed for the purpose of the study.

Findings
Across the 52 teams that completed the questionnaire, multidisciplinary teams were more likely to complete an assessment form on all people with dementia referred to them, and to hold meetings when reviewing a person’s care. They were found to have a higher standard of assessment. Single discipline teams, however, tended to be more culturally sensitive – the only standard in which they outperformed mixed teams. There was no difference in terms of person-centred practice or carer involvement and support; while both types had low scores in relation to flexibility and emergency access.

Key messages

• Multidisciplinary teams providing dementia care can provide higher quality, more transparent care in a number of areas including assessment and review
• Attention should be paid in both single and multi-disciplinary teams to ensure that dementia services are culturally sensitive and flexible