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P2‐283: Indianapolis discovery network for dementia: Where we are after two years
Author(s) -
Hake Ann Marie,
Munger Stephanie,
Farlow Martin R.,
Healey Patrick J.,
Austrom Mary G.,
Boustani Malaz
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.713
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 1552-5279
pISSN - 1552-5260
DOI - 10.1016/j.jalz.2008.05.1359
Subject(s) - workgroup , dementia , medicine , health care , medical education , geriatrics , pharmacy , nursing , psychology , psychiatry , political science , computer science , law , disease , computer network , pathology
Background: Despite numerous quality improvement efforts, best practice guidelines, and clinical and basic research activities over the past three decades, dementia is still underdiagnosed and undertreated, especially among minorities. Furthermore, even among those receiving optimal care, only a small proportion participate in clinical trials. The Institute of Medicine has recommended the need for system thinking and integrated, locally sensitive collaboration among the various members of the local community, health care systems and research organizations. It is hypothesized that an effective collaboration would improve diagnosis and treatment of the dementia patient, as well as increase participation in research. Methods: A local and diverse network of dementia researchers, clinical providers, and policy makers who are interested in improving the care for dementia patients in Indianapolis was invited to participate in bimonthly meetings. The Network uses the Complex Adaptive System theoretical framework and the Reflective Adaptive Process to facilitate and sustain effective interactions among its members. Results: The Network was established in February 2006 and includes more than 60 members from more than 20 local organizations representing geriatrics, neurology, psychiatry, pathology, neuropsychology, psychology, nursing, social work, primary care, geriatric pharmacy, health services research, epidemiology, pharmaceutical industry, Alzheimer advocacy, state policy makers, health administration, medical education, and biostatistics. The network uses two types of communication among its members. The first is a 3-hour face-to-face bimonthly meeting that includes all members. The second is a project-based workgroup meeting that focuses on a specific task and includes a segment of the network members. To date, the network has built a web-based resource center, completed 4 full-day educational seminars, received funding to test a research enrollment process utilizing the local Alzheimer’s Association help line, enabled clinicians to refer patients directly to a research registry, facilitated the submission of two NIH applications, tested a new group interaction method called “consultancy”, and has established a new dementia care clinic at the county hospital. Conclusions: Building a local interdisciplinary “think-tank” network in dementia facilitates conducting various collaborative research, educational and quality improvement programs that meet the local research, clinical, and community needs relevant to dementia.