For the purposes of this competition the initial project that is being used for assessment and formation of this specific framework is Development of a modernised ECC Building to accommodate the Integrated Care Programme for Older People and Chronic Disease Management Teams for the people of Cork City North. Project Description Cork North Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP) is a project of the National Integrated Care Programme for Older People. The philosophy of Cork City North ICPOP is based upon improving the quality of life of older persons by providing access to integrated care and support which is specifically tailored to their needs and choices, thus supporting them to live well. In keeping with the Sláintecare Report (2017) and the HSE National Service Plan (2023) the ultimate realisation of this proposal will maximise a shift in care delivery from acute, episodic, reactive, care towards a longitudinal, co ordinated and integrated community based model that is preventative, and planned, close to people’s home environment and communities. Timely diagnosis and intervention for people with dementia is also one of six Priority Action Areas in the National Dementia Strategy (2017). Current diagnostic capacity is significantly below demand, with a high proportion of people without a dementia diagnosis (Cahill et al, 2012). Timely diagnosis benefits the individual, allowing appropriate and timely intervention to slow cognitive decline and maintain function. For family members, it can provide reassurance and support in their caring role. For the system, it enables early intervention, with upstream support and prevention of crisis intervention and some evidence for cost avoidance due to the delayed need for residential care. Cork North Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP) is a project of the National Integrated Care Programme for Older People. The philosophy of Cork City North ICPOP is based upon improving the quality of life of older persons by providing access to integrated care and support which is specifically tailored to their needs and choices, thus supporting them to live well. In keeping with the Sláintecare Report (2017) and the HSE National Service Plan (2023) the ultimate realisation of this proposal will maximise a shift in care delivery from acute, episodic, reactive, care towards a longitudinal, co ordinated and integrated community based model that is preventative, and planned, close to people’s home environment and communities. Timely diagnosis and intervention for people with dementia is also one of six Priority Action Areas in the National Dementia Strategy (2017). Current diagnostic capacity is significantly below demand, with a high proportion of people without a dementia diagnosis (Cahill et al, 2012). Timely diagnosis benefits the individual, allowing appropriate and timely intervention to slow cognitive decline and maintain function. For family members, it can provide reassurance and support in their caring role. For the system, it enables early intervention, with upstream support and prevention of crisis intervention and some evidence for cost avoidance due to the delayed need for residential care. Both the ICPOP and IPCDM teams are currently located in converted health centres and former residential facilities, within St Marys Health Campus. This arrangement poses daily operational challenges e.g. securing access to diagnostics, providing appropriate heating. There are insufficient rooms to accommodate the fully funded teams and maintaining Infection control standards is challenging on a daily basis The gym and rehabilitation facilities, are not of a sufficient size to undertake group work. Parking and access is also an issue for those with chronic illnesses and older people who attend.
