International Journal of Health Policy and Management

This commentary discusses the study by Remers et al. (2023). The authors analysed the impact of the Dutch DementiaNet programme on hospital admissions and healthcare costs for individuals with dementia. Using the detailed claims data of over 38,000 insured individuals, the study found that participation in DementiaNet networks was associated with fewer hospital admissions and care days, as well as reduced hospital costs. Furthermore, participation in DementiaNet was linked to increased outpatient healthcare expenditure, while overall healthcare costs remained stable. This commentary tries to place the findings within health economic theory. It posits that DementiaNet could reduce information asymmetries, transaction costs and disincentives in dementia care. Through its network- and primary care–based approach, DementiaNet plausibly improves care coordination, which might enable earlier interventions. This could account for the shift in costs from inpatient to outpatient care. Additionally, the commentary addresses methodological considerations, limitations and directions for future research.