Development of a site readiness framework to improve health system preparedness for potential new Alzheimer’s disease therapies

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThe growing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) population, the continued emergence of AD biomarkers, and the potential approval of therapies that target the underlying pathophysiology of AD have the potential to transform the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of AD within health systems. Transformation of the AD patient care pathway will present significant challenges, and resources are needed to help health systems prepare to integrate potential new AD therapies into patient care.MethodsPremier Applied Sciences developed a “Site Readiness Framework” for a new paradigm of AD care, with input from key medical experts in AD and select U.S. health systems, as well as financial support and input from Biogen. The development process involved interprofessional contributions from neurology, geriatrics, neuropsychology, psychiatry, radiology, infusion, memory disorders program coordination, and formulary management. Stakeholder interviews were conducted to illuminate the myriad challenges that potential new AD therapies may pose for health systems and guide the development of resources aimed to address those challenges.ResultsKey components of the Site Readiness Framework for AD include a program self‐assessment to help health systems identify gaps in preparedness for new AD therapies, and tools for mapping key considerations, such as purposeful referral of patients from primary care to a specialist, biomarker assessment, preparing for infusion therapy, and care coordination. An overview of the resources available within the Site Readiness Framework for AD, as well as a description of their potential application within a large academic health system, will be reported.ConclusionsThe approval of a disease‐modifying therapy for AD will require a transformation of the AD patient care pathway. The Site Readiness Framework for AD may help health systems prepare to integrate potential new therapies.