Abstract

Given that there are limited evidence-informed non-pharmacological interventions to treat behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, a specialized psychiatric hospital partnered with an academic university to create a clinical demonstration unit (CDU) – a learning health systems (LHS) model to advance dementia care. In this paper, we identify five key enablers that led to the successful creation of the CDU, its achievements and challenges encountered. The paper provides learnings for other healthcare providers who are considering initiating an LHS model within their setting to advance patient care.