The effect of guided care teams on the use of health services: results from a cluster-randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The effect of interdisciplinary primary care teams on the use of health services by patients with multiple chronic conditions is uncertain. This study aimed to measure the effect of guided care teams on multimorbid older patients' use of health services.

Methods

Eligible patients from 3 health care systems in the Baltimore, Maryland-Washington, DC, area were cluster-randomized to receive guided care or usual care for 20 months between November 1, 2006, and June 30, 2008. Eight services of a guided care nurse working in partnership with patients' primary care physicians were provided: comprehensive assessment, evidence-based care planning, monthly monitoring of symptoms and adherence, transitional care, coordination of health care professionals, support for self-ma

SUBMITTER: Boult C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4450357 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature