Catalyzing dementia care through the learning health system and consumer health information technology

To advance care for persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), real-world health system effectiveness research must actively engage those affected to understand what works, for whom, in what setting, and for how long-an agenda central to learning health system (LHS) principles. This perspective discusses how emerging payment models, quality improvement initiatives, and population health strategies present opportunities to embed best practice principles of ADRD care within the LHS. We discuss how stakeholder engagement in an ADRD LHS when embedding, adapting, and refining prototypes can ensure that products are viable when implemented. Finally, we highlight the promise of consumer-oriented health information technologies in supporting persons living with ADRD and their care partners and delivering embedded ADRD interventions at scale. We aim to stimulate progress toward sustainable infrastructure paired with person- and family-facing innovations that catalyze broader transformation of ADRD care.

Automated summary

In order to advance care for persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), it is crucial to actively engage those affected in real-world health system effectiveness research. This article discusses the opportunities presented by emerging payment models, quality improvement initiatives, and population health strategies to embed best practice principles of ADRD care within the learning health system (LHS). Stakeholder engagement is vital in ensuring the viability of products when implementing and refining prototypes in an ADRD LHS. Additionally, consumer-oriented health information technologies hold promise in supporting persons living with ADRD and their care partners, as well as delivering embedded ADRD interventions at scale.