A comparative study of dementia-related service provision and configuration in Canada
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the provision of dementia-related services throughout the disease trajectory. Previously collected interview data from family physicians, geriatric specialists, and case managers in Calgary, Edmonton, and Ottawa (n=34) using a standardized interview schedule were quantified and thematically categorized. The proportions of participants that identified specific services were analyzed at each stage and cumulatively using chi-square tests; proportions of identifiers were also examined through time using time-to-event analysis. Further, relationships between participants and services were described using social network analysis. The following services were analyzed: neuroimaging, depression-related, delirium-related, future planning, informal support, Alzheimer Society and related, in-home support, and day program services. Overall, the findings indicated variation in service delivery among professionals and locations; family physicians and Ottawa clinicians, particularly, may not be providing services at frequencies and times recommended in national guidelines.