Integrated care models for older australians with chronic conditions: a scoping review

Scientific Abstract Objectives To evaluate Australian integrated care models for older adults with chronic conditions and assess their alignment with the Nine Pillars of Integrated Care framework. Methods A scoping review was conducted across MEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library. Peer-reviewed studies published within the past five years were included if they described integrated care models implemented in Australia for individuals aged ≥65 years, or ≥50 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Screening, full-text review, and data extraction were completed using Covidence. Extracted data included model characteristics, outcomes, and levels of integration. A thematic synthesis was undertaken, and each model was mapped against the Nine Pillars of Integrated Care and categorised by level of integration (micro, meso, macro). Results Eight studies representing five distinct integrated care models were included. Most models demonstrated strong patient-centred approaches at the micro level, with some evidence of meso-level service integration. No studies reported macro-level integration. Alignment was strongest in the domains of Population Health and Local Context and Transparency of Progress, Results and Impact. Weak alignment was observed in Resilient Communities and New Alliances and Aligned Payment Systems. The OPEN ARCH model demonstrated the most comprehensive alignment across multiple domains but did not achieve full alignment across all nine pillars. Conclusions Within the limited peer-reviewed evidence identified, integrated care models were reported primarily at the local service and patient-care levels, with little evidence of system-level integration. These preliminary findings identify governance, funding alignment, and cross-sector partnerships as priorities for further research and policy evaluation.