1. What Is Integrated Care?

This chapter delves into the concept of integrated care, tracing its historical roots and evolution. It highlights the shift from disease-focused, episodic care to a more holistic, community-based approach that emphasizes coordination and people-centeredness. The text explores various models and frameworks of integrated care, such as the Chronic Care Model and the Patient-Centered Medical Home, and discusses their implications for health system reform. It also examines the core dimensions of integrated care, including the process of integration, the degree of integration, and the types of integration. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the challenges and opportunities in implementing integrated care strategies, emphasizing the need for political, regulatory, organizational, and professional support to achieve the goals of integrated care.