The PRISMA France study: implementation rate and factors influencing this rate

INTRODUCTION: The PRISMA integration model is a promising method to implement integration in health and social services for elderly people. In the PRISMA-France study, we qualitatively studied the implementation process of this model in French settings. METHOD: Our analyses were based on in-depth interviews, meeting observations and the documentation produced. RESULTS: We adapted the implementation scale inherent to the PRISMA model to fit the French context and, using this scale, were able to appreciate a 15% progression of implementation, from 5% to 20%, in the first 18 months of the study. The factors that contributed to this rate of progression are of three main types. To begin with, contextual factors intrinsic to the French setting complexified the incorporation of integration into the public policy agenda and the means to achieve this feat. Secondly, factors related to the background of the concerned managers and professionals were identified. Thirdly, factors related to the particularities of the PRISMA-Experiment's governance were noted. Our experience leads to consider time as the answer to these hindering contextual, professional and governance issues. CONCLUSION: These observations hold an important strategic value in a time where a wider integration experimentation is planned by the ‘plan-Alzheimer’ in France.