Not Re-inventing the Wheel: the Adaptive Implementation of the Meeting Centres Support Programme in Four European Countries

Objectives: The implementation of new health services is a complex process. This study investigated
the first phase of the adaptive implementation of the Dutch Meeting Centres Support Programme
(MCSP) for people with dementia and their carers in three European countries (Italy, Poland, the UK)
within the JPND-MEETINGDEM project. Anticipated and experienced factors influencing the
implementation, and the efficacy of the implementation process, were investigated. Findings were
compared with previous research in the Netherlands.
Method: A qualitative multiple case study design was applied. Checklist on anticipated facilitators and
barriers to the implementation and semi-structured interview were completed by stakeholders,
respectively at the end and at the beginning of the preparation phase.
Results: Overall, few differences between countries were founded. Facilitators for all countries were:
added value of MCSP matching needs of the target group, evidence of effectiveness of MCSP,
enthusiasm of stakeholders. General barriers were: competition with existing care and welfare
organizations and scarce funding. Some countries experienced improved collaborations, others had
difficulties finding a socially integrated location for MCSP. The step-by-step implementation method
proved efficacious.
Conclusion: These insights into factors influencing the implementation of MCSP in three European
countries and the efficacy of the step-by-step preparation may aid further implementation of MCSP in Europe