Assessing the Pilot Implementation of the Integrated Multimorbidity Care Model in Five European Settings: Results from the Joint Action CHRODIS-PLUS
Multimorbidity, the coexistence of several chronic conditions in a patient, represents a great challenge for healthcare systems and society. The Integrated Multimorbidity Care Model (IMCM) was recently designed within the Joint Action on chronic diseases and promoting healthy ageing across the life cycle (CHRODIS) to ensure the continuity of care for patients with multimorbidity. The IMCM was implemented in five European pilot sites in Spain, Italy, and Lithuania, within the Joint Action CHRODIS-PLUS. The effect of these pilot interventions was assessed pre- and post-implementation by 17 healthcare managers, using the Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (ACIC) measure, and by 226 patients with the Patient Assessment of Care for Chronic Conditions (PACIC+) survey. The ACIC total score significantly increased (5.23 to 6.71, p = 0.022) after the intervention, with differences across sites. A significant increase in the PACIC+ summary score was found ranging from 3.25 at baseline to 4.03 after the intervention (p < 0.001), and 58% of the sample perceived an improvement in care. Higher PACIC+ scores after the intervention were associated to lower baseline values in the respective PACIC+ dimension and to greater changes in ACIC Part 1 (delivery system organization). The IMCM implementation can help improve the quality of care for patients with multimorbidity. ; The Joint Action CHRODIS-PLUS is funded by the Health Programme 2014–2020 of the European Union. Sole responsibility lies with the author and the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein. This study was also partially funded by the Institute of Health Carlos III through the projects RD16/0005/0002 and RD16/0001/0005 (co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund/European Social Fund "A way to make Europe"/"Investing in your future"). ; Sí