Anchoring Continuity of Care: measuring, monitoring and maximizing in practice and policy

Personal continuity means having a regular general practitioner (GP) who knows and follows you. This has many advantages, such as better care for less money. Yet, continuity is declining. 

Aim

GPs and policymakers are currently unable to real-time measure and strengthen continuity. In this research project, Anchor-CoC, we are developing tools to make this possible: Navigator and Lighthouse.

Approach

For GPs, we develop Navigator: an application within the electronic health record that provides direct insight and targeted improvement recommendations. In a randomized controlled study, we assess effects on continuity and care outcomes. For policy makers, we develop Lighthouse: a tool that shows how innovations, such as digital applications, affect continuity. In evaluation sessions, we evaluate its impact on policy.

Impact

Strengthening continuity is a significant investment. Research shows: the more continuity, the greater the positive effect – patients feel healthier, care providers enjoy their work more, and healthcare use and costs decrease.