This study updates and expands upon the seminal review by Strandberg-Larsen and Krasnik (2009) by examining evaluation methods for integrated healthcare delivery published between 2009 and 2022. Integrated care aims to enhance care coordination and patient-centeredness by bridging healthcare silos; however, evaluating such complex systems remains a challenge.
A rapid review methodology was employed, following Cochrane Rapid Review guidance. Four databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library) were searched using a comprehensive set of integrated care-related terms. Inclusion criteria were based on structural, cultural and process aspects of integration, as well as methodological criteria such as theoretical grounding, data type and internal validity. A 10-point framework was used to classify identified studies.
Out of over 40,000 initial records, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Quantitative approaches were dominant, with only one study using a mixed-methods design. Tools such as the Practice Integration Profile and B3-Maturity Model addressed structural readiness, while others emphasized cultural elements like collaboration and accountability. Process-focused evaluations offered insights into coordination and stakeholder experiences. Findings reveal an over-reliance on quantitative tools and call for the integration of qualitative measures to better capture the dynamic, context-specific nature of integrated care.
This review provides updated, evidence-informed recommendations for evaluating integrated healthcare systems. It advocates for holistic, flexible and mixed-methods frameworks to support health leaders and policymakers in advancing integrated care.
