A Study on the Social Care Service Delivery System for Older People: Focusing on the Perspectives of Public Sector Employees and Private Service Providers

Abstract

A number of social care services for older people have been expanded recently to meet the increasing needs of that population. Despite this, there has been little research exploring the care service delivery system. The aim of this study is to examine how the public sector employees and private service providers who are in charge of the services experience and evaluate the service delivery systems, particularly in terms of the integration of services. The author chose a qualitative research method and conducted focus group interviews with a sample of both employees and providers. The research findings uncovered a fragmented service delivery system. In particular, the development of a new added service delivery system for the expanded services, rather than a modification of the existing service delivery system, created this fragmentation. In addition, there has been inadequate linkage and coordination of services in some parts. No integrated computer system for the services was established. Owing to these challenges, it has been reported the inaccessibility of services, and both public officials and private service providers have complained about the increased workloads and the inefficiency. To cope with these issues, the study suggests the establishment of an integrated service delivery system, a strengthened role of the local authority, the establishment of an integrated computer system, and the development of preventive care services for older people.