Research Core- The State Alzheimer's Research Support Center (StARS)

Revised Project Summary/Abstract-Research/Pilot Core Multiple and interacting state-level policy and contextual factors influence the structure, processes, implementation, and outcomes of integrated/coordinated dementia care. Consequently, research to better understand and improve systems of care can be equally complex, involving challenges related to data access, reconciling multiple stakeholder perspectives, and applying advanced analytic approaches. In line with the State Alzheimer's Research Support Center’s (StARS’) goals to better understand and improve care within states for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease related dementias (AD/ADRD) and their caregivers, the Research/Pilot Core will solicit, select, support, rigorous pilot research. One-year pilot projects of up to $110,000 in total costs each will be awarded via two pathways: from state partnerships identified and guided by the Partnership and Engagement Core (Pathway 1), and direct application by other investigative teams seeking to evaluate integrated/coordinated dementia care services within their states (Pathway 2). Our four proposed aims are to: 1) develop criteria and processes for the solicitation, selection, funding, development, monitoring, and dissemination of up to 16 pilot projects (up to four per year during years 1-4) that are focused on state-level policy and/or contextual factors influencing care coordination and integration for persons living with dementia and their caregivers; 2) ensure that pilot projects are well-designed, timely, rigorous, and meet data and code sharing requirements by providing guidance, oversight, technical assistance, and access to Center data and support resources; 3) assist in the further development, translation, and dissemination of completed pilot projects to key stakeholders, decision-makers, and leaders to promote translation of findings to practice and policy; and 4) expand the expertise and network of funded pilot awardees by offering support after projects have concluded via research/pilot grant review opportunities, ongoing communication, networking, and data sharing activities. Close coordination with the StARS 4U Team will ensure relevance to all communities. The Research/Pilot Core is led by an experienced, visionary, multidisciplinary team focused on advancing dementia care quality, access, and delivery. This Core will contribute notably to our knowledge of the structure, process, and outcomes (e.g., care transitions) of integrated/coordinated dementia care services, how they vary by state, as well as examine the effects of policy variations/changes and other contextual factors on dementia care services within and across states.