Development of an Integrated Care Model for Patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Through the Participation of Families, Schools, and Communities in Nadun District, Mahasarakham Province

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop and evaluate an integrated care model for patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) through the participation of families, schools, and communities in Nadun District, Mahasarakham Province. The study was conducted among 110 purposively selected participants, including patients with ADHD, caregivers, and relevant stakeholders, between October 2023 and September 2024. The research instruments consisted of symptom assessment forms, participation assessment forms, continuity of care assessment forms, and satisfaction questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

The results revealed that (1) the developed model, named the NADUN-ADHD CARE Model, consists of five key components: proactive screening, participatory education, coordinated multidisciplinary care, home visits and continuous follow-up, and family and community support systems; and (2) after implementation of the model, patients demonstrated significant improvements in attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and oppositional behaviors (p < 0.001). Family, school, and community participation reached a high level, while continuity of care and home visit follow-up significantly increased. Caregivers and network partners reported high to the highest levels of satisfaction with the model.

In conclusion, the NADUN-ADHD CARE Model is an integrated care model that enhances the effectiveness of continuous care, promotes the participation of network partners, and can be appropriately and sustainably applied to the development of community-based healthcare services.