A Health Systems Policy Framework on “How to” Build Cross-Sector Collaboration: Perspectives From Health Administrators and Leaders

Abstract

There are many barriers/challenges bringing multiple stakeholders within health and non-health together to collaborate to address population health. This study aims to identify the key components to build successful cross-sector collaboration and develop a policy framework for health systems integration and transformation. We conducted quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with health administrators and leaders who volunteered to participate on six newly established teams or “Tables” to improve population health locally in Ontario, Canada. Using thematic analysis and methodological triangulation, we identified emergent themes that were confirmed by member checking. The Relational Coordination survey response rate was 62% (n=45). The survey results were correlated with the twelve interviews and member checking. Drawing from the perspectives of the health administrators and leaders of the “Tables”, the emergent themes identified for successful cross-sector collaboration were: 1) systems change mindset, 2) inter-dependency, 3) inter-organizational relationships, and 4) self-organizing capacity. A health systems policy framework on “how to” build cross-sector collaboration was developed to support and achieve health systems integration.