| 70 The healthcare providers in our mixed methods study encompassed a wide range of healthcare providers. This is in part due to our aim to cover the diagnostic process and post-diagnostic support, which often are provided by different types of healthcare providers. It also was an opportunity to provide a more comprehensive overview of the current state of the transition between diagnosis and post-diagnostic support. Our findings might therefore not be directly applicable to one type of healthcare profession. Future research could specify similar research to a more specific group of healthcare providers to aid the generalizability of their findings. Our mixed methods study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. We were able to successfully utilize online qualitative data collection methods in four out of the five countries. The UK was unable to pursue qualitative data collection at this time due to a temporary pause on all non-covid-related research. An online approach to qualitative research is relatively new and we acknowledge the challenges as described by de Villiers and Farooq (41). Conclusion In summary, this mixed methods study underscores the pivotal role of healthcare providers in bridging the gap between the diagnostic trajectory and post-diagnostic support for people with dementia. Key findings highlighted the importance of improving access to healthcare systems, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring healthcare providers’ awareness of informational resources. Healthcare providers who work in the diagnostic process and post-diagnostic support seem to be more satisfied with the integration of diagnosis and support. Addressing the challenges identified in this study such as fragmented support services and inadequate referral processes can help to improve the overall care experience for people with dementia and their caregivers.
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