Catalyzing dementia care through the learning health system and consumer health information technology

Alzheimers Dement. 2023 May;19(5):2197-2207. doi: 10.1002/alz.12918. Epub 2023 Jan 17.

Abstract

To advance care for persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), real-world health system effectiveness research must actively engage those affected to understand what works, for whom, in what setting, and for how long-an agenda central to learning health system (LHS) principles. This perspective discusses how emerging payment models, quality improvement initiatives, and population health strategies present opportunities to embed best practice principles of ADRD care within the LHS. We discuss how stakeholder engagement in an ADRD LHS when embedding, adapting, and refining prototypes can ensure that products are viable when implemented. Finally, we highlight the promise of consumer-oriented health information technologies in supporting persons living with ADRD and their care partners and delivering embedded ADRD interventions at scale. We aim to stimulate progress toward sustainable infrastructure paired with person- and family-facing innovations that catalyze broader transformation of ADRD care.

Keywords: dementia; health equity; implementation science; learning health system; patient portal.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease* / therapy
  • Caregivers
  • Dementia* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Learning Health System*
  • Quality Improvement