Quality indicator framework for primary care of patients with dementia

Objective: To develop a framework of population-based primary care quality indicators adapted to patients with dementia and to identify a subset of stakeholder-driven priority indicators.

Design: Framework development was carried out through the selection of an initial framework based on a rapid review and identification of relevant indicators and enrichment based on existing dementia indicators and guidelines. Prioritization of indicators was carried out through a stakeholder survey.

Setting: Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan.

Participants: Stakeholders in community dementia care (N=109) including clinicians, patients, caregivers, decision makers, and managers.

Main outcome measures: Primary care quality indicators.

Results: The framework comprised 34 indicators across 8 domains of quality (access, integration, effective care, efficient care, equity, safety, population health, and patient-centred care). Access to a regular primary care provider, continuity of care, early-stage diagnosis, and access to home care were consistently rated as priorities. Equitable care was a specific priority among patients and caregivers; clinicians reported avoidable hospitalizations as among their priorities.

Conclusion: A framework of indicators was established for persons with dementia that adds an important dimension to existing primary care and dementia quality indicators by providing primary care and population-based perspectives. This framework could set a foundation for the ongoing monitoring of primary care practices and policies for persons with dementia at a population level.