Dementia care

The problem

The Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network (NBMPHN) identified significant gaps in dementia care across its region, driven by rising demand and an aging population. Despite efforts, access to early diagnosis, quality care, and equitable services for people with dementia remained inconsistent, particularly for those living in remote areas, culturally diverse communities, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. The region faced challenges such as a lack of specialist services outside of major centers like Penrith, variability in the capability of general practitioners to diagnose and manage dementia, and service gaps that left many without adequate support.

Our approach

Synergia was commissioned by NBMPHN to conduct a comprehensive analysis and develop strategic recommendations to improve dementia care in the region.

The approach included:

Engaging with multiple healthcare professionals and carers through interviews and workshops to gather insights on current service challenges and opportunities.

Creating an interactive map of existing dementia services to highlight gaps in service provision, particularly in remote areas.

Developing a simulation model to estimate the current and future prevalence of dementia in the region, enabling more accurate planning for future service needs.

Utilising cognitive mapping techniques to identify key issues in dementia care, such as early diagnosis, service gaps, GP capability, and equity, and to explore potential interventions.

Impacts

The project provided NBMPHN with a clear set of actionable insights and recommendations that supported strategic decision-making:

Enhanced service planning: The simulation model offered robust estimates of future demand, enabling more informed planning and commissioning of dementia services across the region.

Targeted interventions: The identification of key issues and service gaps informed the development of targeted interventions, such as improving GP training for early diagnosis, enhancing access to specialist services, and addressing inequities in care for culturally diverse and remote communities.

Improved access and equity: The recommendations addresses service gaps, particularly in remote areas, and improves access to culturally appropriate care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Strategic focus: By prioritising early diagnosis and the development of a supportive health system, the recommendations provided a strategic focus for NBMPHN to build the capability of primary care and ensure sustainable improvements in dementia care.

These benefits helped NBMPHN move towards a more integrated, equitable, and effective dementia care system that is better equipped to meet the growing needs of its population.