Organizational innovation and integrated care: lessons from Buurtzorg

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the case of Buurtzorg Nederland as a good practice example of integrated care, focussing in particular on the organizational aspects of its innovation. As the field of integrated care is still in many ways in its infancy, it is hoped that lessons learned could help other agencies and other systems seeking to reform community-based care. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing on a grounded approach, this case study is based on individual interviews with 38 respondents comprising staff, founder, co-founders, coaches, nurses, clients and a trainer and analysis of internal company reports. Findings – Based on the case study the authors suggest an integrated approach as the main explanation of the good practice at Buurtzorg rather than a focus on one single concept such as management structure, information and communication technology, community-based care or a patient focus. Next to the multi-level approach it furthermore shows a multi-dimensional approach as explanation for its success. In this perspective the primary process is the leading process but fully supported by the secondary process containing support facilities from a head office of the organization. Practical implications – Buurtzorg Nederland has been awarded with several prizes for its good management practice in integrated care and attention internationally is growing. Originality/value – This paper provides the first case study write-up of the Buurtzorg model for an international audience, based on extensive research to be published in an international book.