Roles and responsibilities in integrated care for dementia

Effective integrated healthcare systems require capable, trained workforces with leadership, shared governance and co-ordination. The purpose of this paper is to characterise roles and responsibilities in relation to integrated care from the perspective of massive open online course (MOOC) participants.

MOOC discussion board posts were analysed using framework analysis consisting of transcription, familiarisation, coding, developing an analytical framework and application of the framework.

Boundaries and key issues surrounding roles and responsibilities were highlighted and participants suggested a number of enablers which could enhance integrated care in addition to barriers to consider and overcome.

Enablers included introduction of shared communication and IT systems to support continuity of care. Awareness and understanding of dementia was seen as crucial to promote person-centred care and care planning. The roles of education and experience were highlighted. Barriers preventing effective roles and suitable responsibility include funding, role conflicts, time constraints and time-consuming paperwork.