Interprofessional Collaboration in the Mental Health Services in Norway

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe and interpret interprofessional collaboration between healthcare professionals (HCPs) working at the district psychiatric centre (DPC) and employed in community mental health care (CMHC) using a dialogue-oriented co-operative approach. Data were collected by means of multistage focus groups and qualitative content analysis was performed. The main theme “development of interprofessional collaboration by means of organisational strategies and interactional styles” encompassed the following categories: “improved communication skills,” “developing structures for coordination and responsibility” and “ increased professional insight into the values and conditions necessary for decision-making.” In conclusion, more attention should be paid to leadership in terms of coordination and feedback. The HCPs must be acknowledged, understood and strengthened in their work to improve the quality of CMHC. Finally, we recommend that a range of organisational and administrative models of care be used in order to support improvement work.

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“…Understanding different discipline-specific roles and knowledge cultivates a culture of collaboration [8][9][10][11][12][13][14]. Members of different disciplines are equipped with specific knowledge and competencies within their own discipline [8].…”

“…Members of different disciplines are equipped with specific knowledge and competencies within their own discipline [8]. Members across different disciplines also have their own understanding of common terminologies, patients' overall health and recovery process [8].…”

“…Share decision making is an important attribute to achieve effective IDC [8][9][10][11][12][13][14]. Shared decision making is a collaborative process in which healthcare professionals make health related decisions together with the clients.…”

“…The routine meetings should include team members from different disciplines and also clients and their family; through in-depth discussion in the meetings, the healthcare members can gain thorough understanding of clients' needs while all parties can have insight into the shared goal of care and the details of any integrated plans [8]. IDC meetings provide a regular channel to share ideas, information, and feedback across disciplines for better continuity of care [8]. Establishment of an IDC referral system can enhance collaborative relationships, communication, and the continuity of care [17,20].…”

Implementation Strategies for Improving the Care of Depressed Elderly Persons—Summary of an International Workshop

“…However, innovative approaches that enhance patient and system outcomes require motivation and engagement [10] as well as research capacity [11], collaboration [12], and communication skills [9]. There are many interventions available for change of practice, and education is not necessarily the sole implementation strategy, especially as it has been demonstrated that traditional didactic education does not have much potential for bringing about change [13].…”