Integrating public and private home care services: the Kotitori model in Tampere, Finland

Purpose - This case study aims to introduce a novel home care service integrator model called "Kotitori". In the model the City contracts with a private provider, which, in turn, works with public, private, and third sector providers in order to meet the customer needs in a personalised way. Design/methodology/approach - The case study draws from key policy documents and stakeholder interviews. Findings - The study introduces a unique form of public-private partnership in Finland, and describes the basic elements of Kotitori, the development process of the model, and the model's distinctive features compared to more traditional ways of home care service delivery. Research limitations/implications - The Kotitori model is still in its early stages of implementation and reliable data on performance are limited. Practical implications - The transferability potential of the Kotitori model is good both nationally and internationally. The model is potentially beneficial for countries with an interest in developing integrated care in general, as it reflects a form of "accountable care organisation". Originality/value - This is the first study describing the Kotitori model for an international audience.