Mixed-methods research revealed the need for dementia services and Human Resource Master Plan in an aging Philippines

Abstract

Objective: To determine the status of dementia care services and workforce in selected public and private hospitals and geriatric care facilities in the Philippines.

Study design and setting: Framework analysis of 54 key informant interviews, 4 focus group discussions, and survey of 167 workers in 26 purposively selected facilities.

Results: Three dementia care models emerged: (1) separate unit, seen in 2 facilities, (2) partial dementia services, 9 facilities, and (3) integrated with the general services, 15 facilities. Only 1 of 26 facilities had specific outpatient services; only 1 provided care exclusively to dementia patients. Community day care services were rare. Physicians, nurses, and nursing assistants were available in all institutions. Nutrition and physical therapy services were generally available. There was a scarcity of physician specialists (e.g., geriatrics) and occupational therapists. Half of the workers surveyed rated the quality of their service at 80 or higher, 27% defined dementia correctly. Attitude toward dementia was very positive, in the form of willingness to care for and willingness to learn more.

Conclusion: Mixed-methods research helped identify service and health workforce needs and elucidate understanding of health workers' attitude and perceptions toward a disease of which there is low knowledge and awareness.

Keywords: Dementia; Geriatrics; Health Human Resource; Models of care; Philippines; Workforce.