Adapting the spanish healthcare system for disease-modifying treatments in early-stage alzheimer's disease.

backgroundThe emergence of disease-modifying therapies targeting amyloid pathology represents a major paradigm shift in the management of Alzheimer disease (AD). However, their implementation poses substantial organizational, infrastructural, and clinical challenges for health systems.

objectivesTo identify the key challenges and establish priority recommendations for the effective incorporation of amyloid-targeting therapies into the Spanish National Health System. DESIGN, SETTING, AND

participantsThis multiphase consensus study was conducted within the Spanish National Health System between September 2024 and July 2025. The study comprised a narrative literature review, qualitative research, regional workshops, and a modified RAND/UCLA Delphi process. A total of 56 experts participated, including a scientific committee of 6 Alzheimer disease specialists and an expert panel of 50 multidisciplinary professionals involved in AD care. MEASUREMENTS: Identification of key challenges across the AD care pathway; development, evaluation, and prioritization of consensus-based recommendations; and estimation of patient demand, including projected increases in day hospital activity and magnetic resonance imaging utilization.

resultsTen key challenge areas were identified, encompassing early detection and referral, diagnostic confirmation, assessment of patient eligibility, treatment administration in day hospitals, monitoring of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, evaluation of treatment effectiveness, infrastructure and capacity, professional training, patient information and support, and health care planning. Of the 43 recommendations assessed, 38 were rated as appropriate and necessary, with 14 prioritized for immediate implementation. Demand estimation models indicated that 11 to 26 patients per 100,000 inhabitants could be treated under current care patterns, increasing to 17 to 115 per 100,000 inhabitants under alternative eligibility scenarios.

conclusionsThis consensus defines the clinical, organizational, and infrastructural requirements necessary to integrate amyloid-targeting therapies into routine care within the Spanish National Health System. The prioritized recommendations define immediate actions to address the challenges identified and may serve as a reference for other health systems facing similar implementation processes.