title: Evaluating integrated health care: a model for measurement.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In the development of integrated care, there is an increasing need for knowledge about the actual degree of integration between different providers of health services. The purpose of this article is to describe the conceptualisation and validation of a practical model for measurement, which can be used by managers to implement and sustain integrated care.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  The model is based on a continuum of integration, extending from full segregation through intermediate forms of linkage, coordination and cooperation to full integration.
  
  
  METHODS
  The continuum was operationalised into a ratio scale of functional clinical integration. This scale was used in an explorative study of a local health authority in Sweden. Data on integration were collected in self-assessment forms together with estimated ranks of optimum integration between the different units of the health authority. The data were processed with statistical methods and the results were discussed with the managers concerned.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Judging from this explorative study, it seems that the model of measurement collects reliable and valid data of functional clinical integration in local health care. The model was also regarded as a useful instrument for managers of integrated care.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  One of the main advantages with the model is that it includes optimum ranks of integration beside actual ranks. The optimum integration rank between two units is depending on the needs of both differentiation and integration.
authors.affiliation: Bengt Ahgren, Nordic School of Public Health, Göteborg, Sweden. bengt.ahgren@bs.se
authors.forename: Bengt
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ahgren
authors.forename: Runo
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Axelsson