Advancing District Nursing Care Through a Learning Healthcare System: A Viewpoint on Key Requirements

Authors Jessica Veldhuizen, Marieke Schuurmans, Misja Mikkers, Nienke Bleijenberg
Published in Healthcare
Publication date 2024
Research groups Proactive care for older people living at home
Type Article

Summary

The increasing complexity of healthcare needs driven by an ageing population places pressure on district nursing care. Many vulnerable older adults prefer to remain at home, requiring care coordinated with general practitioners and other professionals. This demand for integrated care is further challenged by a shortage of nursing professionals and the lack of standardised approaches to measure care quality. This article identifies the key requirements for implementing a learning healthcare system in district nursing care, using patient outcome data to foster continuous improvement and create a more adaptive, evidence-based, and patient-centred approach. This paper synthesises findings from multiple studies conducted as part of a PhD thesis, utilising a multi-method approach. These methods include examining patient outcomes in district nursing care and evaluating necessary cultural, organisational, and financial changes. Four key requirements were identified: (1) standardising patient outcome measures; (2) fostering a data-driven culture and strengthening professional autonomy; (3) enhancing organisational support and integrated care; and (4) adopting financing models that incentivise continuous learning and quality improvement. Implementing a learning healthcare system with patient outcome data in district nursing care requires a transformative shift. Standardising outcome measures, investing in information systems, and promoting continuous learning are crucial. Aligning financial incentives with patient outcomes, strengthening professional autonomy, and enhancing organisational support can make district nursing more responsive and capable of meeting complex needs. The described requirements are essential for advancing district nursing care through a more adaptive, evidence-based, and patient-centred approach.

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On this publication contributed

  • Jessica Veldhuizen | Researcher | Research group Chronic Diseases
    Jessica Veldhuizen
    • Researcher
    • Research group: Proactive care for older people living at home
  • Nienke Bleijenberg PhD | Professor | Research group Chronic Diseases
    Nienke Bleijenberg
    • Professor
    • Research group: Proactive care for older people living at home
Language English
Published in Healthcare
Year and volume 12 2576
Key words district nursing care, learning healthcare system, patient outcomes, integrated care, healthcare transformation, data-driven practice
Digital Object Identifier 10.3390/healthcare12242576
Page range 1-14

Jessica Veldhuizen

Jessica Veldhuizen | Researcher | Research group Chronic Diseases

Jessica Veldhuizen

  • Researcher
  • Research group: Proactive care for older people living at home