Development of a contextualized, research-based Flemish assessment framework for digital care, assistance, and support: Delphi study
This Delphi study developed a consensus-based quality assessment framework for digital care in Flanders. Through expert interviews, a literature review, and three Delphi rounds with 50 experts, the study produced a framework of 112 criteria across three pillars: technology, organization, and professional competencies.
Summary
The digital transformation of care, assistance, and support creates both opportunities and challenges for quality assurance. This study developed a contextualized, research-based Flemish quality assessment framework for digital care through a systematic approach combining a literature review, expert interviews, and a three-round Delphi procedure with 50 experts across five domains (mental health, physical health, social work, disability care, and general practice). The resulting framework comprises 112 quality criteria organized under three pillars – technology, organization, and professional competencies – with 77 designated as minimum requirements and 35 as optional enhancements. The framework provides practitioners, organizations, and policymakers with practical policy recommendations and guidance for implementation in practice, supporting the evaluation and improvement of digital care delivery in Flanders.
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Reference
Buelens, F., Seymoens, T., Verplancke, J., & Van Daele, T. (2026). Development of a contextualized, research-based Flemish assessment framework for digital care, assistance, and support: Delphi Study. JMIR Formative Research, 10, e88512. https://doi.org/10.2196/88512