Developing Integrated Care: The I-CONNECT Care Model for Older Adults with Mood Disorders and Multimorbidity

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Abstract
Introduction: Older adults living at home increasingly face mood disorders alongside multimorbidity, yet healthcare remains fragmented. Gaps in coordination, limited integration of mental and physical health services, and insufficient multidisciplinary collaboration persist. To address these challenges, we developed I-CONNECT, a structured, stakeholder-informed, integrated care model. The aim of this paper is to describe the systematic development of I-CONNECT and its alignment with evidence-based practices and feasibility within the Belgian healthcare system. Methods: We followed a pragmatic, mixed-methods approach guided by ten recommended actions for intervention development. The process involved a scoping review, qualitative research with healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers, and a series of stakeholder workshops and meetings to iteratively design and refine the intervention and inform its feasibility. A logic model articulated the program theory, and the intervention was described using the TIDieR framework. Results: The process resulted in I-CONNECT, a prototype integrated care model for home-dwelling older adults with mood disorders and multimorbidity. The model builds on existing healthcare structures and on six key principles: personalized care, care coordination, self-management support, multidisciplinary collaboration, medication reviews, and follow-ups. These were translated into a six-step care process. Conclusion: I-CONNECT is a pragmatic, evidence-informed model addressing systemic fragmentation in Belgian healthcare. A forthcoming evaluation will refine the model and inform broader integrated care initiatives.
Funding Information
  • KU Leuven (C26M/22/002)

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