1
|
Koatz D, Torres-Castaño A, Salrach-Arnau C, Perestelo-Pérez L, Ramos-García V, González-González AI, Pacheco-Huergo V, Toledo-Chávarri A, González-Pacheco H, Orrego C. Exploring value creation in a virtual community of practice: a framework analysis for knowledge and skills development among primary care professionals. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:121. [PMID: 38326814 PMCID: PMC10848396 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05061-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare professionals traditional education reflects constraints to face the complex needs of people with chronic diseases in primary care settings. Since more innovative and practical solutions are required, Virtual Community of Practices (vCoP) seem to better respond to learning updates, improving professional and organizational knowledge. However, little is known about the value created in vCoPs as social learning environments. The objective of this project was to explore the value creation process of a gamified vCoP ("e-mpodera vCoP") aimed at improving the knowledge and attitudes of primary healthcare professionals (PCPs) (nurses and general practitioners) to the empowerment of people with chronic conditions. METHODS A framework analysis assessed the value creation process using a mixed methods approach. The framework provided awareness about knowledge and usefulness in a learning community through five cycles: (1) immediate value, (2) potential value, (3) applied value, (4) realized value, and (5) reframing value. Quantitative data included vCoP analytics such as logins, contributions, points, badges, and performance metrics. Qualitative data consisted of PCPs' forum contributions from Madrid, Catalonia, and Canary Islands over 14 months. RESULTS A total of 185 PCPs had access to the e-mpodera vCoPs. The vCoP showed the dynamic participation of 146 PCPs, along 63 content activities posted, including a total of 3,571 contributions (including text, images, links to webpages, and other files). Regarding the value creation process, the e-mpodera vCoP seems to encompass a broad spectrum of value cycles, with indicators mostly related to cycle 1 (immediate value - activities and interactions) and cycle 2 (potential value - knowledge capital); and to a lesser extent for cycle 3 (applied value - changes in practice) and for cycle 4 (realized value - performance improvement). The presence of indicators related to cycle 5 (reframing value), was minimal, due to few individual redefinitions of success. CONCLUSION To reach a wider range of value possibilities, a combination of learning objectives, competence framework, challenged-based gamified platform, and pathway model of skill development seems crucial. However, additional research is required to gain clearer insights into organizational values, professionals' lifelong educational needs in healthcare, and the long-term sustainability of performance improvement. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02757781. Registered on 02/05/2016.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Débora Koatz
- Avedis Donabedian Research Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Alezandra Torres-Castaño
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), Tenerife, Spain
- Evaluation Unit of the Canary Islands Health Service (SESCS), Tenerife, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Salrach-Arnau
- Avedis Donabedian Research Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lilisbeth Perestelo-Pérez
- Evaluation Unit of the Canary Islands Health Service (SESCS), Tenerife, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Vanesa Ramos-García
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), Tenerife, Spain
- Evaluation Unit of the Canary Islands Health Service (SESCS), Tenerife, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Isabel González-González
- Innovation and International Research Unit, Directorate-General for Research and Education, Madrid Health Ministry, Madrid, Spain
- Research Institute of University Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Valeria Pacheco-Huergo
- Avedis Donabedian Research Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Atención Primaria Turó-Vilapicina, Instituto Catalán de la Salud, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Toledo-Chávarri
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), Tenerife, Spain
- Evaluation Unit of the Canary Islands Health Service (SESCS), Tenerife, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Himar González-Pacheco
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), Tenerife, Spain
- Evaluation Unit of the Canary Islands Health Service (SESCS), Tenerife, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carola Orrego
- Avedis Donabedian Research Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS-RICORS), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kaye DK, Kayondo SP, Nabatanzi SL, Nassuuna S, Musana O, Namagembe I, Nsanja JP, Kakaire O, Ssebadduka P, Ssekimpi C. Using digital platforms to promote a healthcare provider community of practice for abortion care in Uganda. Reprod Health 2023; 20:180. [PMID: 38057896 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-023-01721-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A community of practice (CoP) is defined as a group of people who share a concern, set of problems, or a passion about a topic, and who deepen their knowledge and expertise by interacting on an ongoing basis. The paper presents a case study on the design, implementation and management of a CoP. The objective is to share experiences, opportunities, challenges and lessons learnt in using digital platforms for clinical mentorships to establish a CoP that promotes enhanced service provision of abortion care. METHODS We employed competence-based training and ongoing virtual mentorship for abortion care, employing the abortion harm reduction model, and using several digital platforms to create and nurture community of practice for abortion care. Using the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation for Behavior (COM-B) model and textual data analysis, we evaluated the performance of the CoP as a tool to support abortion care, using data from in-depth interviews and information shared on the platforms. The data was analyzed by thematic analysis using text data analytical approach. RESULTS CoPs have much unrealized potential for networking to improve abortion care, as they are more inclusive, interactive and equalizing than typical webinars, yet less expensive and can complement (though not replace) physical mentorships. CoPs' focus on sharing best practices and creating new knowledge to advance professional practice, faces challenges of maintaining regular interaction on an ongoing basis. CoP members need to share a passion for their practice and mutual trust is key to success. CONCLUSION Though it faced initial challenges of connectivity, and limited interaction, the CoP approach using digital platforms promoted shared experiences, personal connections, communication, collaboration and application of knowledge for improved abortion care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Kabonge Kaye
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Simon Peter Kayondo
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Susan Nassuuna
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Othiniel Musana
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Imelda Namagembe
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Paul Nsanja
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Othman Kakaire
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Ssebadduka
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Cissy Ssekimpi
- Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Uganda, P.O. Box 11966, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hennein R, Ggita JM, Turimumahoro P, Ochom E, Gupta AJ, Katamba A, Armstrong-Hough M, Davis JL. Core components of a Community of Practice to improve community health worker performance: a qualitative study. Implement Sci Commun 2022; 3:27. [PMID: 35272705 PMCID: PMC8908651 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-022-00279-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Communities of Practice (CoPs) offer an accessible strategy for healthcare workers to improve the quality of care through knowledge sharing. However, not enough is known about which components of CoPs are core to facilitating behavior change. Therefore, we carried out a qualitative study to address these important gaps in the literature on CoPs and inform planning for an interventional study of CoPs. Methods We organized community health workers (CHWs) from two tuberculosis (TB) clinics in Kampala, Uganda, into a CoP from February to June 2018. We conducted interviews with CoP members to understand their perceptions of how the CoP influenced delivery of TB contact investigation. Using an abductive approach, we first applied inductive codes characterizing CHWs’ perceptions of how the CoP activities affected their delivery of contact investigation. We then systematically mapped these codes into their functional categories using the Behavior Change Technique (BCT) Taxonomy and the Behavior Change Wheel framework. We triangulated all interview findings with detailed field notes. Results All eight members of the CoP agreed to participate in the interviews. CHWs identified five CoP activities as core to improving the quality of their work: (1) individual review of feedback reports, (2) collaborative improvement meetings, (3) real-time communications among members, (4) didactic education sessions, and (5) clinic-wide staff meetings. These activities incorporated nine different BCTs and five distinct intervention functions. CHWs reported that these activities provided a venue for them to share challenges, exchange knowledge, engage in group problem solving, and benefit from social support. CHWs also explained that they felt a shared sense of ownership of the CoP, which motivated them to propose and carry out innovations. CHWs described that the CoP strengthened their social and professional identities within and outside the group, and improved their self-efficacy. Conclusions We identified the core components and several mechanisms through which CoPs may improve CHW performance. Future studies should evaluate the importance of these mechanisms in mediating the effects of CoPs on program effectiveness. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43058-022-00279-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Hennein
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joseph M Ggita
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Patricia Turimumahoro
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Ochom
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Amanda J Gupta
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Achilles Katamba
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mari Armstrong-Hough
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda. .,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University, New York, NY, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, New York University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - J Lucian Davis
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.,Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine Section, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Durand F, Richard L, Beaudet N, Fortin-Pellerin L, Hudon AM, Tremblay MC. Healthcare professionals' longitudinal perceptions of group phenomena as determinants of self-assessed learning in organizational communities of practice. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:75. [PMID: 35114973 PMCID: PMC8815148 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03137-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the importance of continuous learning as a response to the increasing complexity of health care practice, there is a need to better understand what makes communities of practice in health effective at fostering learning. Despite the conceptual stance that communities of practice facilitate individual learning, the scientific literature does not offer much evidence for this. Known factors associated with the effectiveness of communities of practice - such as collaboration, psychological safety within the community, and commitment to the community - have been studied in cross-sectional qualitative designs. However, no studies to date have used a quantitative predictive design. The objective of this study is to assess how members of a community of practice perceive interactions among themselves and determine the extent to which these interactions predict self-assessed learning over time. METHODS Data was collected using validated questionnaires from six communities of practice (N = 83) in four waves of measures over the course of 36 months and was analysed by means of General Estimating Equations. This allowed to build a longitudinal model of the associations between perceptions of collaboration, psychological safety within the community, commitment to the community and self-assessed learning over time. RESULTS Perception of collaboration in the community of practice, a personal sense of psychological safety and a commitment to the community of practice are predictors longitudinally associated with self-assessed learning. CONCLUSIONS In terms of theory, conceptual links can be made between intensity of collaboration and learning over time in the context of a community of practice. Recent work on psychological safety suggests that it is still unclear whether psychological safety acts as a direct enhancer of learning or as a remover of barriers to learning. This study's longitudinal results suggest that psychological safety may enhance how and to what extent professionals feel they learn over time. Commitment towards the community of practice is a strong predictor of learning over time, which hints at differential effects of affective, normative and continuance commitment. Communities of practice can therefore apply these findings by making collaboration, psychological safety, commitment and learning regular reflexive topics of discussion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- François Durand
- Montfort Research Chair in Organization of Health Services, Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa, 55 Laurier Avenue East, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5 Canada
| | - Lucie Richard
- Faculté des sciences infirmières, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Nicole Beaudet
- Direction de santé publique de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | | | | | - Marie-Claude Tremblay
- Département de médecine de famille et de médecine d’urgence, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Agyemang FG. Examining the information seeking and sharing activities in a virtual community of librarians. JOURNAL OF LIBRARIANSHIP AND INFORMATION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/09610006211037389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The study examines the information exchange activities among librarians when communicating in a virtual community. Specifically, the study explores the kind of information librarians seek or share in a virtual community. The study also explores how librarians react to the shared or sought-for information in a virtual community. This study was carried out on 50 librarians in community of practice on a WhatsApp platform. Netnography as a research design was used in this study. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis techniques. The findings show that librarians share information that encourage and support one another. The findings also show that librarians share and seek related information on career and institutional work, thought-provoking information and personality quotes. In reaction to the shared information, librarians peruse shared information for their authenticity. Librarians share appreciative messages in reaction to the sharing of important and educative information. In the situation of misinformation or where suspicious information is shared, librarians counter the shared information in reaction by posting messages cautioning librarians to beware of scam.
Collapse
|
6
|
Linkewich E, Quant S, Bechard L, Donald M. Using a Virtual Community of Practice to Support Stroke Best Practice Implementation: Mixed-Methods Evaluation (Preprint). JMIR Form Res 2021; 6:e31827. [PMID: 35475730 PMCID: PMC9096658 DOI: 10.2196/31827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Successful best practice implementation is influenced by access to peer support and knowledge exchange. The Toronto Stroke Networks Virtual Community of Practice, a secure social media platform, is a knowledge translation tool supporting dissemination and adoption of stroke best practices for interprofessional stroke stakeholders. Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the use of a virtual community of practice (VCoP) in supporting regional stroke care best practice implementation in an urban context. Methods A mixed methods approach was used. Qualitative data were collected through focus groups and interviews with stroke care provider members of the VCoP working in acute and rehabilitation settings. Thematic analysis was completed, and the Wenger Value Creation Model and developmental evaluation were used to reflect practice change. Quantitative data were collected and analyzed using website analytics on VCoP use. Results A year after implementation, the VCoP had 379 members. Analysis of web analytics data and transcripts from focus groups and interviews conducted with 26 VCoP members indicated that the VCoP provided immediate value in supporting user networking, community activities, and interactions. Skill acquisition and changes in perspective acquired through discussion and project work on the VCoP were valued by members, with potential value for supporting practice change. Learning about new stroke best practices through the VCoP was a starting point for individuals and teams to contemplate change. Conclusions These findings suggest that the VCoP supports the early stages of practice change and stroke best practice implementation. Future research should examine how VCoPs can support higher levels of value creation for implementing stroke best practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Linkewich
- North and East GTA Stroke Network, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sylvia Quant
- North and East GTA Stroke Network, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lauren Bechard
- North and East GTA Stroke Network, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ashcroft J. Exploring educational models within the operating room. Postgrad Med J 2021; 97:616-619. [PMID: 33692159 DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2021-139815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James Ashcroft
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bolisani E, Fedeli M, Bierema L, De Marchi V. United we adapt: communities of practice to face the CoronaVirus crisis in higher education. KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT RESEARCH & PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/14778238.2020.1851615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Bolisani
- Department of Management and Engineering, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Monica Fedeli
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Laura Bierema
- Department of Lifelong Education, Administration, and Policy, University of Georgia, Athens, USA
| | - Valentina De Marchi
- Department of Economics and Management 'Marco Fanno', University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abiodun R, Daniels F, Pimmer DC, Chipps J. A whatsapp community of practice to support new graduate nurses in South Africa. Nurse Educ Pract 2020; 46:102826. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2020.102826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
10
|
Lau KS, Lo P, Chiu DK, Ho KK, Jiang T, Zhou Q, Percy P, Allard B. Library and learning experiences turned mobile: A comparative study between LIS and non-LIS students. JOURNAL OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIANSHIP 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.acalib.2019.102103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
11
|
Landes SJ, Smith BN, Weingardt KR. Supporting Grass Roots Implementation of an Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Through a Virtual Community of Practice: A Case Example in the Department of Veterans Affairs. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
12
|
Bermejo-Caja CJ, Koatz D, Orrego C, Perestelo-Pérez L, González-González AI, Ballester M, Pacheco-Huergo V, del Rey-Granado Y, Muñoz-Balsa M, Ramírez-Puerta AB, Canellas-Criado Y, Pérez-Rivas FJ, Toledo-Chávarri A, Martínez-Marcos M. Acceptability and feasibility of a virtual community of practice to primary care professionals regarding patient empowerment: a qualitative pilot study. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:403. [PMID: 31221215 PMCID: PMC6587268 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4185-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual communities of practice (vCoPs) facilitate online learning via the exchange of experiences and knowledge between interested participants. Compared to other communities, vCoPs need to overcome technological structures and specific barriers. Our objective was to pilot the acceptability and feasibility of a vCoP aimed at improving the attitudes of primary care professionals to the empowerment of patients with chronic conditions. METHODS We used a qualitative approach based on 2 focus groups: one composed of 6 general practitioners and the other of 6 practice nurses. Discussion guidelines on the topics to be investigated were provided to the moderator. Sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was performed using the ATLAS-ti software. RESULTS The available operating systems and browsers and the lack of suitable spaces and time were reported as the main difficulties with the vCoP. The vCoP was perceived to be a flexible learning mode that provided up-to-date resources applicable to routine practice and offered a space for the exchange of experiences and approaches. CONCLUSIONS The results from this pilot study show that the vCoP was considered useful for learning how to empower patients. However, while vCoPs have the potential to facilitate learning and as shown create professional awareness regarding patient empowerment, attention needs to be paid to technological and access issues and the time demands on professionals. We collected relevant inputs to improve the features, content and educational methods to be included in further vCoP implementation. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT02757781 . Registered on 25 April 2016.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Jesús Bermejo-Caja
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Enfermería, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Calle Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Débora Koatz
- Instituto Avedis Donabedian, Universidad Autónoma Barcelona, Calle ProvenÇa 293 pral, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
- Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC) ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carola Orrego
- Instituto Avedis Donabedian, Universidad Autónoma Barcelona, Calle ProvenÇa 293 pral, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
- Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC) ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lilisbeth Perestelo-Pérez
- Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC) ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Evaluación y Planificación, Dirección del Servicio Canario de la Salud, Centro de Salud El Chorrillo, Camino Candelaria s/n, 38109, El Rosario, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ana Isabel González-González
- Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC) ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Institut für Allegemeinmedizin. Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Centro de Salud Vicente Muzas, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle Vicente Muzas 8, 28043 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Ballester
- Instituto Avedis Donabedian, Universidad Autónoma Barcelona, Calle ProvenÇa 293 pral, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
- Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC) ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Yolanda del Rey-Granado
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcos Muñoz-Balsa
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Belén Ramírez-Puerta
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda Canellas-Criado
- Centro de Salud Monóvar, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle Monóvar 11, 28033 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Pérez-Rivas
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Toledo-Chávarri
- Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC) ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Fundación Canaria de Investigación Sanitaria, Centro de Salud El Chorrillo, Camino Candelaria s/n, 38109, El Rosario, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Mercedes Martínez-Marcos
- Departamento de Enfermería, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Calle Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Knowledge integration in IPPD project: role of shared project mission, mutual trust, and mutual influence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijproman.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
14
|
Fingrut W, Beck LA, Lo D. Oncology communities of practice: insights from a qualitative analysis. Curr Oncol 2018; 25:378-383. [PMID: 30607112 PMCID: PMC6291282 DOI: 10.3747/co.25.4088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A community of practice (cop) is formally defined as a group of people who share a concern or a passion for something they do and who learn how to do it better as they interact regularly. Communities of practice represent a promising approach for improving cancer care outcomes. However, little research is available to guide the development of oncology cops. In 2015, our urban community hospital launched an oncology cop, with the goals of decreasing barriers to access, fostering collaboration, and improving practitioner knowledge of guidelines and services in cancer care. Here, we share insights from a qualitative analysis of feedback from participants in our cop. The objective of the project was to identify participant perspectives about preferred cop features, with a view to improving the quality of our community hospital's oncology cop. Methods After 5 in-person meetings of our oncology cop, participants were surveyed about what the cop should start, stop, and continue doing. Qualitative methods were used to analyze the feedback. Results The survey collected 250 comments from 117 unique cop participants, including family physicians, specialist physicians, nurses, and allied health care practitioners. Analysis identified participant perspectives about the key features of the cop and avenues for improvement across four themes: supporting knowledge exchange, identifying and addressing practice gaps, enhancing interprofessional collaboration, and fostering a culture of partnership. Conclusions Based on the results, we identified several considerations that could be helpful in improving our cop. Our findings might help guide the development of oncology cops at other institutions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Fingrut
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
| | - L A Beck
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, St. Joseph's Health Centre, Toronto, ON
| | - D Lo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, St. Joseph's Health Centre, Toronto, ON
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lacasta Tintorer D, Manresa Domínguez JM, Pujol-Rivera E, Flayeh Beneyto S, Mundet Tuduri X, Saigí-Rubió F. Keys to success of a community of clinical practice in primary care: a qualitative evaluation of the ECOPIH project. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2018; 19:56. [PMID: 29743030 PMCID: PMC5944103 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-018-0739-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background The current reality of primary care (PC) makes it essential to have telemedicine systems available to facilitate communication between care levels. Communities of practice have great potential in terms of care and education, and that is why the Online Communication Tool between Primary and Hospital Care was created. This tool enables PC and non-GP specialist care (SC) professionals to raise clinical cases for consultation and to share information. The objective of this article is to explore healthcare professionals’ views on communities of clinical practice (CoCPs) and the changes that need to be made in an uncontrolled real-life setting after more than two years of use. Methods A descriptive-interpretative qualitative study was conducted on a total of 29 healthcare professionals who were users and non-users of a CoCP using 2 focus groups, 3 triangular groups and 5 individual interviews. There were 18 women, 21 physicians and 8 nurses. Of the interviewees, 21 were PC professionals, 24 were users of a CoCP and 7 held managerial positions. Results For a system of communication between PC and SC to become a tool that is habitually used and very useful, the interviewees considered that it would have to be able to find quick, effective solutions to the queries raised, based on up-to-date information that is directly applicable to daily clinical practice. Contact should be virtual – and probably collaborative – via a platform integrated into their habitual workstations and led by PC professionals. Organisational changes should be implemented to enable users to have more time in their working day to spend on the tool, and professionals should have a proactive attitude in order to make the most if its potential. It is also important to make certain technological changes, basically aimed at improving the tool’s accessibility, by integrating it into habitual clinical workstations. Conclusions The collaborative tool that provides reliable, up-to-date information that is highly transferrable to clinical practice is valued for its effectiveness, efficiency and educational capacity. In order to make the most of its potential in terms of care and education, organisational changes and techniques are required to foster greater use. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12875-018-0739-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Lacasta Tintorer
- Centre d'Atenció Primària Gran Sol, Gerència d'Àmbit d'Atenció Primària Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Avinguda del Doctor Bassols, 112 - 130, 08914, Badalona, Spain.,Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Metropolitana Nord, IDIAP Jordi Gol. CAP El Maresme, Camí del Mig, 36 planta 4a, 08303, Mataró, Spain.,Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Plaça Cívica, s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Manresa Domínguez
- Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Metropolitana Nord, IDIAP Jordi Gol. CAP El Maresme, Camí del Mig, 36 planta 4a, 08303, Mataró, Spain.,Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Plaça Cívica, s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Enriqueta Pujol-Rivera
- Institut Universitari d'Investigació en Atenció Primària (IDIAP Jordi Gol), Gran Via Corts Catalanes, 587, àtic, 08007, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Souhel Flayeh Beneyto
- Centre d'Atenció Primària Gran Sol, Gerència d'Àmbit d'Atenció Primària Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Avinguda del Doctor Bassols, 112 - 130, 08914, Badalona, Spain
| | - Xavier Mundet Tuduri
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Plaça Cívica, s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.,Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Barcelona Ciutat, IDIAP Jordi Gol, Carrer Sardenya 375, 08025, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Saigí-Rubió
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Barcelona. Av. Tibidabo, 39-43, 08035, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Crockett LK, Leggett C, Curran JA, Knisley L, Brockman G, Scott SD, Hartling L, Jabbour M, Klassen TP. Knowledge sharing between general and pediatric emergency departments: connections, barriers, and opportunities. CAN J EMERG MED 2018; 20:1-9. [PMID: 29467040 DOI: 10.1017/cem.2018.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Translating Emergency Knowledge for Kids (TREKK) is a national network aimed at improving emergency care for children by increasing collaborations and knowledge sharing between general and pediatric emergency departments (EDs). This study aimed to determine patterns of knowledge sharing within the network and to identify connections, barriers, and opportunities to obtaining pediatric information and training. METHODS We conducted 22 semi-structured interviews with health care professionals working in general EDs, purposefully sampled to represent connected and disconnected sites, based on two previous internal quantitative social network analyses (SNA). Data were analyzed by two independent reviewers. RESULTS Participants included physicians (59%) and nurses (41%) from 18 general EDs in urban (68%) and rural/remote (32%) Canada. Health care professionals sought information both formally and informally, by using guidelines, talking to colleagues, and attending pediatric related training sessions. Network structure and processes were found to increase connections, support practice change, and promote standards of care. Participants identified personal, organizational and system level barriers to information and skill acquisition, including resources and personal costs, geography, dissemination, and time. Providing easy access to information at the point of care was promoted through enhancing content visibility and by embedding resources into local systems. There remains a need to share successful methods of local dissemination and implementation across the network, and to leverage local professional champions such as clinical nurse liaisons. CONCLUSIONS These findings reinforce the critical role of ongoing network evaluation to improve the design and delivery of knowledge mobilization initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah K Crockett
- *George & Fay Yee Centre for Health Care Innovation,Winnipeg,MB
| | - Carly Leggett
- *George & Fay Yee Centre for Health Care Innovation,Winnipeg,MB
| | | | - Lisa Knisley
- †Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba,Winnipeg,MB
| | | | | | - Lisa Hartling
- ¶Department of Pediatrics,University of Alberta,Edmonton,AB
| | - Mona Jabbour
- **Department of Pediatrics,University of Ottawa,Ottawa,ON
| | - Terry P Klassen
- *George & Fay Yee Centre for Health Care Innovation,Winnipeg,MB
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Goodwin TL, Brocklehurst PR, Williams L. The knowledge mobilisation challenge: does producing evidence lead to its adoption within dentistry? Br Dent J 2018; 224:136-139. [PMID: 29391605 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2018.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The transfer of evidence into clinical practice is the ultimate aim of those engaged in health research. But is this a process that occurs naturally? Can health researchers take it for granted that the evidence they produce will be embraced by clinicians and incorporated into their everyday practice? In this article, we use the example of oral healthcare in dependent older people and the issue of antibiotic prescribing by GDPs to illustrate the fact that successful knowledge transfer between researchers and practitioners cannot be automatically assumed. What is needed, so we argue, are certain tools to facilitate the knowledge transfer, exchange and implementation process. These tools may take the form of human intermediaries, who can occupy the space in between the worlds of research and practice, acting as brokers to mobilise knowledge, or through the establishment of communities of practice. We outline both of these approaches here as a potential solution to the problem of knowledge mobilisation in dentistry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T L Goodwin
- The University of Manchester, Division of Dentistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL
| | - P R Brocklehurst
- Director of NWORTH Clinical Trials Unit and Honorary Consultant in Dental Public Health
| | - L Williams
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Bangor University Holyhead Road, Gwynedd, LL57 2PZ
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hurtubise K, Pratte G, Rivard L, Berbari J, Héguy L, Camden C. Exploring engagement in a virtual community of practice in pediatric rehabilitation: who are non-users, lurkers, and posters? Disabil Rehabil 2017; 41:983-990. [PMID: 29260923 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2017.1416496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Communities of practice are increasingly recognized in rehabilitation as useful knowledge transfer tools; however, little is known about their users. This exploratory study describes the characteristics of participants and non-participants invited to engage in a pediatric rehabilitation virtual community of practice. In addition, we explored virtual community of practice utilization behaviors, engagement predictors, and the impact of strategies designed to foster engagement. MATERIALS AND METHODS Participants' demographics including information-seeking style and organization e-readiness, as well as online platform frequency of use data were collected and analyzed using descriptive, comparative, and predictive statistics. RESULTS Seventy-four percent of those invited used the virtual community of practice. Users had less years of experience in pediatric rehabilitation than non-users. Among the users, 71% were classified as "lurkers," who engaged through reading content only; while 29% were classified as "posters," editing online content. Predictive factors were not uncovered, however an increased number of forum visits correlated with being a poster, a non-information seeker, an employee of an organization demonstrating e-readiness, and regularly working with children with the virtual community of practice specific condition. User-engagement strategies increased visits to the forum. CONCLUSIONS These findings will assist rehabilitation leaders in leveraging rehabilitation-specific virtual community of practice to improve knowledge transfer and practice in pediatric rehabilitation and disability management. Implications for Rehabilitation Communities of practice are increasingly recognized as useful knowledge transfer tools for rehabilitation professionals and are made more accessible thanks to virtual technologies. Our virtual community of practice was found to be optimized in health care organizations with an electronic culture, when the topic area had daily relevance to its target audience, and was particularly beneficial for those who have limited years of experience in pediatric rehabilitation. A strongly committed, selected leadership team with the technological skills, content expertise, and designated time to maintain the site and to nurture discussion was deemed vital in fostering knowledge exchange in this context. User-focused engagement strategies showed promise in increasing visits to the virtual community of practice. Our study supports the importance of multi-pronged approaches in enhancing health care professional knowledge and skills Findings from this study will assist rehabilitation leaders in optimally leveraging rehabilitation-specific virtual community of practice to improve knowledge transfer in pediatric rehabilitation and disability management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Hurtubise
- a Faculté de médecine et sciences de la santé , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , Canada
| | - Gabrielle Pratte
- a Faculté de médecine et sciences de la santé , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , Canada
| | - Lisa Rivard
- b School of Rehabilitation Science , McMaster University , Hamilton , Canada.,c CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research , McMaster University , Hamilton , Canada
| | - Jade Berbari
- a Faculté de médecine et sciences de la santé , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , Canada
| | - Léa Héguy
- a Faculté de médecine et sciences de la santé , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , Canada
| | - Chantal Camden
- a Faculté de médecine et sciences de la santé , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , Canada.,c CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research , McMaster University , Hamilton , Canada.,d Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
McLoughlin C, Patel KD, O'Callaghan T, Reeves S. The use of virtual communities of practice to improve interprofessional collaboration and education: findings from an integrated review. J Interprof Care 2017; 32:136-142. [PMID: 29161155 DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2017.1377692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The recent growth in online technology has led to a rapid increase in the sharing of health related information globally. Health and social care professionals are now using a wide range of virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) for learning, support, continuing professional education, knowledge management and information sharing. In this article, we report the findings from a review of the literature that explored the use of VCoPs by health and social care professionals to determine their potential for interprofessional education and collaboration. We employed integrated review methods to search and identify relevant VCoP articles. We undertook searches of PubMed and Google Scholar from 2000, which after screening, resulted in the inclusion of 19 articles. A thematic analysis generated the following key issues related to the use of VCoPs: 'definitions and approaches', 'technological infrastructure', 'reported benefits', 'participation issues', 'trust and privacy and 'technical ability'. Based on the findings from this review, there is some evidence that VCoPs can offer an informal method of professional and interprofessional development for clinicians, and can decrease social and professional isolation. However, for VCoPs to be successful, issues of privacy, trust, encouragement and technology need to be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kunal D Patel
- a Research & Advocacy , iheed , Dublin , Ireland.,b Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education , Kingston University & St Georges University , London , UK
| | | | - Scott Reeves
- b Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education , Kingston University & St Georges University , London , UK
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
González-González AI, Orrego C, Perestelo-Perez L, Bermejo-Caja CJ, Mora N, Koatz D, Ballester M, del Pino T, Pérez-Ramos J, Toledo-Chavarri A, Robles N, Pérez-Rivas FJ, Ramírez-Puerta AB, Canellas-Criado Y, del Rey-Granado Y, Muñoz-Balsa MJ, Becerril-Rojas B, Rodríguez-Morales D, Sánchez-Perruca L, Vázquez JR, Aguirre A. Effectiveness of a virtual intervention for primary healthcare professionals aimed at improving attitudes towards the empowerment of patients with chronic diseases: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial (e-MPODERA project). Trials 2017; 18:505. [PMID: 29084597 PMCID: PMC5663036 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-017-2232-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communities of practice are based on the idea that learning involves a group of people exchanging experiences and knowledge. The e-MPODERA project aims to assess the effectiveness of a virtual community of practice aimed at improving primary healthcare professional attitudes to the empowerment of patients with chronic diseases. METHODS This paper describes the protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial. We will randomly assign 18 primary-care practices per participating region of Spain (Catalonia, Madrid and Canary Islands) to a virtual community of practice or to usual training. The primary-care practice will be the randomization unit and the primary healthcare professional will be the unit of analysis. We will need a sample of 270 primary healthcare professionals (general practitioners and nurses) and 1382 patients. We will perform randomization after professionals and patients are selected. We will ask the intervention group to participate for 12 months in a virtual community of practice based on a web 2.0 platform. We will measure the primary outcome using the Patient-Provider Orientation Scale questionnaire administered at baseline and after 12 months. Secondary outcomes will be the sociodemographic characteristics of health professionals, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients, the Patient Activation Measure questionnaire for patient activation and outcomes regarding use of the virtual community of practice. We will calculate a linear mixed-effects regression to estimate the effect of participating in the virtual community of practice. DISCUSSION This cluster randomized controlled trial will show whether a virtual intervention for primary healthcare professionals improves attitudes to the empowerment of patients with chronic diseases. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClicalTrials.gov, NCT02757781 . Registered on 25 April 2016. Protocol Version. PI15.01 22 January 2016.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel González-González
- Centro de Salud Vicente Muzas, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Calle Vicente Muzas 8, 28043 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carola Orrego
- Instituto Universitario Avedis Donabedian, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Calle Provença 293 pral, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lilisbeth Perestelo-Perez
- Servicio de Evaluación y Planificación, Dirección del Servicio Canario de la Salud, Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Camino Candelaria s/n. Centro de Salud El Chorrillo, 38109 El Rosario, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Carlos Jesús Bermejo-Caja
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Mora
- Instituto Universitario Avedis Donabedian, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Calle Provença 293 pral, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Débora Koatz
- Instituto Universitario Avedis Donabedian, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Calle Provença 293 pral, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Ballester
- Instituto Universitario Avedis Donabedian, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Calle Provença 293 pral, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tasmania del Pino
- Fundación Canaria de Investigación y Salud, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Pl. -1. Crta. La Cuesta-Taco, 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife Spain
| | - Jeannet Pérez-Ramos
- Fundación Canaria de Investigación y Salud, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Pl. -1. Crta. La Cuesta-Taco, 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife Spain
| | - Ana Toledo-Chavarri
- Fundación Canaria de Investigación y Salud, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Pl. -1. Crta. La Cuesta-Taco, 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife Spain
| | - Noemí Robles
- Agència de Qualitat i Avaluació Sanitàries de Catalunya (AQuAS), Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Calle Roc Boronat 81-95, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Pérez-Rivas
- Dirección Técnica de Procesos y Calidad, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Facultad de Enfermería de la Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Belén Ramírez-Puerta
- Centro de Salud Vicente Muzas, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle Vicente Muzas 8, 28043 Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda Canellas-Criado
- Centro de Salud Monóvar, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle Monóvar 11, 28033 Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda del Rey-Granado
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcos José Muñoz-Balsa
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Becerril-Rojas
- Unidad de Apoyo Técnico, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - David Rodríguez-Morales
- Área de Cronicidad, Subdirección General de Continuidad Asistencial, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Sánchez-Perruca
- Dirección Técnica de Sistemas de Información Sanitaria, Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), Calle San Martín de Porres 6, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Ramón Vázquez
- Gerencia de Atención Primaria de Tenerife del Servicio Canario de la Salud, Calle Monteverde 45, 38003 Tenerife, Spain
| | - Armando Aguirre
- Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, Ctra. Gral. del Rosario 145, 38010 Tenerife, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Barnett S, Jones SC, Bennett S, Iverson D, Robinson L. A Virtual Community of Practice for General Practice Training: A Preimplementation Survey. JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2016; 2:e13. [PMID: 27731864 PMCID: PMC5041368 DOI: 10.2196/mededu.5318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Professional isolation is an important factor in low rural health workforce retention. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to gain insights to inform the development of an implementation plan for a virtual community of practice (VCoP) for general practice (GP) training in regional Australia. The study also aimed to assess the applicability of the findings of an existing framework in developing this plan. This included ascertaining the main drivers of usage, or usefulness, of the VCoP for users and establishing the different priorities between user groups. METHODS A survey study, based on the seven-step health VCoP framework, was conducted with general practice supervisors and registrars-133 usable responses; 40% estimated response rate. Data was analyzed using the t test and the chi-square test for comparisons between groups. Factor analysis and generalized linear regression modeling were used to ascertain factors which may independently predict intention to use the VCoP. RESULTS In establishing a VCoP, facilitation was seen as important. Regarding stakeholders, the GP training provider was an important sponsor. Factor analysis showed a single goal of usefulness. Registrars had a higher intention to use the VCoP (P<.001) and to perceive it as useful (P<.001) than supervisors. Usefulness independently predicted intention to actively use the VCoP (P<.001). Regarding engagement of a broad church of users, registrars were more likely than supervisors to want allied health professional and specialist involvement (P<.001). A supportive environment was deemed important, but most important was the quality of the content. Participants wanted regular feedback about site activity. Regarding technology and community, training can be online, but trust is better built face-to-face. Supervisors were significantly more likely than registrars to perceive that registrars needed help with knowledge (P=.01) and implementation of knowledge (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS Important factors for a GP training VCoP include the following: facilitation covering administration and expertise, the perceived usefulness of the community, focusing usefulness around knowledge sharing, and overcoming professional isolation with high-quality content. Knowledge needs of different users should be acknowledged and help can be provided online, but trust is better built face-to-face. In conclusion, the findings of the health framework for VCoPs are relevant when developing an implementation plan for a VCoP for GP training. The main driver of success for a GP training VCoP is the perception of its usefulness by participants. Overcoming professional isolation for GP registrars using a VCoP has implications for training and retention of health workers in rural areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Barnett
- General Practice Academic Unit, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kierkegaard P. Mapping telemedicine efforts: surveying regional initiatives in Denmark. Telemed J E Health 2015; 21:427-35. [PMID: 25664377 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2014.0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to survey telemedicine services currently in operation across Denmark. The study specifically seeks to answer the following questions: What initiatives are deployed within the different regions? What are the motivations behind the projects? What technologies are being utilized? What medical disciplines are being supported using telemedicine systems? MATERIALS AND METHODS All data were surveyed from the Telemedicinsk Landkort, a newly created database designed to provide a comprehensive and systematic overview of all telemedicine technologies in Denmark. RESULTS The results of this study suggest that a growing numbers of telemedicine initiatives are currently in operation across Denmark but that considerable variations exist in terms of regional efforts as the number of operational telemedicine projects varied from region to region. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study provide a timely picture of the factors that are shaping the telemedicine landscape of Denmark and suggest potential strategies to help policymakers increase and improve national telemedicine deployment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Kierkegaard
- Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen , København S, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
How has child maltreatment surveillance data been used in Canada? Health Res Policy Syst 2014; 12:65. [PMID: 25430613 PMCID: PMC4266949 DOI: 10.1186/1478-4505-12-65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, a survey was performed as part of a larger study at the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to develop and pilot a series of tools to measure the uptake and use of PHAC-produced or -supported knowledge products by its key partners and stakeholders. This article aims to i) examine the uptake and use of the Canadian Incidence Study of Reported Child Abuse and Neglect 2008 (CIS-2008) and to ii) assess the utility of a knowledge uptake survey for collecting performance measurement data. Methods Using the knowledge utilization ladder as a theoretical framework, a short survey was developed around the themes of reception, cognition, conversation, reference, effort, influence, and implementation. The survey was administered electronically to potential end-users of the CIS-2008. The final sample comprised 85 respondents. Results The results demonstrated that the majority of the respondents were aware of CIS-2008 and had read and used it. A wide array of disciplines and sectors were identified as end-users. Types of use included discussion of CIS data with social workers, child welfare and health advocates, students, medical and legal professionals, and senior government decision makers. Further, CIS was referenced in reports, articles, policy research, community programs, and funding proposals and was used to influence or support the development of policies, programs, and projects. Valuable information on the use of surveillance reports, such as CIS-2008, can be gathered from a brief survey that was easy to administer, cost effective, and that respondents needed minimal time to complete. Conclusions Piloting of the survey demonstrated that the tool, while not perfect, is quite useful for capturing performance measurement information; CIS-2008 is appreciated and used. There is an increased recognition of the importance of the CIS as a unique source of Canadian child maltreatment surveillance data that can influence and lead to the implementation of new programs and policies. Although suggestions for improvement of the CIS-2008 were provided, the present findings offer support for ongoing national child maltreatment surveillance.
Collapse
|
24
|
Barnett S, Jones SC, Caton T, Iverson D, Bennett S, Robinson L. Implementing a virtual community of practice for family physician training: a mixed-methods case study. J Med Internet Res 2014; 16:e83. [PMID: 24622292 PMCID: PMC3967123 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.3083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 01/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background GP training in Australia can be professionally isolating, with trainees spread across large geographic areas, leading to problems with rural workforce retention. Virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) may provide a way of improving knowledge sharing and thus reducing professional isolation. Objective The goal of our study was to review the usefulness of a 7-step framework for implementing a VCoP for general practitioner (GP) training and then evaluated the usefulness of the resulting VCoP in facilitating knowledge sharing and reducing professional isolation. Methods The case was set in an Australian general practice training region involving 55 first-term trainees (GPT1s), from January to July 2012. ConnectGPR was a secure, online community site that included standard community options such as discussion forums, blogs, newsletter broadcasts, webchats, and photo sharing. A mixed-methods case study methodology was used. Results are presented and interpreted for each step of the VCoP 7-step framework and then in terms of the outcomes of knowledge sharing and overcoming isolation. Results Step 1, Facilitation: Regular, personal facilitation by a group of GP trainers with a co-ordinating facilitator was an important factor in the success of ConnectGPR. Step 2, Champion and Support: Leadership and stakeholder engagement were vital. Further benefits are possible if the site is recognized as contributing to training time. Step 3, Clear Goals: Clear goals of facilitating knowledge sharing and improving connectedness helped to keep the site discussions focused. Step 4, A Broad Church: The ConnectGPR community was too narrow, focusing only on first-term trainees (GPT1s). Ideally there should be more involvement of senior trainees, trainers, and specialists. Step 5, A Supportive Environment: Facilitators maintained community standards and encouraged participation. Step 6, Measurement Benchmarking and Feedback: Site activity was primarily driven by centrally generated newsletter feedback. Viewing comments by other participants helped users benchmark their own knowledge, particularly around applying guidelines. Step 7, Technology and Community: All the community tools were useful, but chat was limited and users suggested webinars in future. A larger user base and more training may also be helpful. Time is a common barrier. Trust can be built online, which may have benefit for trainees that cannot attend face-to-face workshops.
Knowledge sharing and isolation outcomes: 28/34 (82%) of the eligible GPT1s enrolled on ConnectGPR. Trainees shared knowledge through online chat, forums, and shared photos. In terms of knowledge needs, GPT1s rated their need for cardiovascular knowledge more highly than supervisors. Isolation was a common theme among interview respondents, and ConnectGPR users felt more supported in their general practice (13/14, 92.9%). Conclusions The 7-step framework for implementation of an online community was useful. Overcoming isolation and improving connectedness through an online knowledge sharing community shows promise in GP training. Time and technology are barriers that may be overcome by training, technology, and valuable content. In a VCoP, trust can be built online. This has implications for course delivery, particularly in regional areas. VCoPs may also have a specific role assisting overseas trained doctors to interpret their medical knowledge in a new context.
Collapse
|
25
|
Barnett S, Jones SC, Bennett S, Iverson D, Bonney A. Usefulness of a virtual community of practice and web 2.0 tools for general practice training: experiences and expectations of general practitioner registrars and supervisors. Aust J Prim Health 2014; 19:292-6. [PMID: 23823006 DOI: 10.1071/py13024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
General practice training is a community of practice in which novices and experts share knowledge. However, there are barriers to knowledge sharing for general practioner (GP) registrars, including geographic and workplace isolation. Virtual communities of practice (VCoP) can be effective in overcoming these barriers using social media tools. The present study examined the perceived usefulness, features and barriers to implementing a VCoP for GP training. Following a survey study of GP registrars and supervisors on VCoP feasibility, a qualitative telephone interview study was undertaken within a regional training provider. Participants with the highest Internet usage in the survey study were selected. Two researchers worked independently conducting thematic analysis using manual coding of transcriptions, later discussing themes until agreement was reached. Seven GP registrars and three GP supervisors participated in the study (average age 38.2 years). Themes emerged regarding professional isolation, potential of social media tools to provide peer support and improve knowledge sharing, and barriers to usage, including time, access and skills. Frequent Internet-using GP registrars and supervisors perceive a VCoP for GP training as a useful tool to overcome professional isolation through improved knowledge sharing. Given that professional isolation can lead to decreased rural work and reduced hours, a successful VCoP may have a positive outcome on the rural medical workforce.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Barnett
- Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Mairs K, McNeil H, McLeod J, Prorok JC, Stolee P. Online strategies to facilitate health-related knowledge transfer: a systematic search and review. Health Info Libr J 2013; 30:261-77. [DOI: 10.1111/hir.12048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2012] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Mairs
- School of Public Health and Health Systems; University of Waterloo; Waterloo ON Canada
| | - Heather McNeil
- School of Public Health and Health Systems; University of Waterloo; Waterloo ON Canada
| | - Jordache McLeod
- School of Public Health and Health Systems; University of Waterloo; Waterloo ON Canada
| | - Jeanette C. Prorok
- School of Public Health and Health Systems; University of Waterloo; Waterloo ON Canada
| | - Paul Stolee
- School of Public Health and Health Systems; University of Waterloo; Waterloo ON Canada
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Panahi S, Watson J, Partridge H. Towards tacit knowledge sharing over social web tools. JOURNAL OF KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT 2013. [DOI: 10.1108/jkm-11-2012-0364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
28
|
Barnett S, Jones SC, Bennett S, Iverson D, Bonney A. Perceptions of family physician trainees and trainers regarding the usefulness of a virtual community of practice. J Med Internet Res 2013; 15:e92. [PMID: 23666237 PMCID: PMC3650926 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.2555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Training for Australian general practice, or family medicine, can be isolating, with registrars (residents or trainees) moving between rural and urban environments, and between hospital and community clinic posts. Virtual communities of practice (VCoPs), groups of people sharing knowledge about their domain of practice online and face-to-face, may have a role in overcoming the isolation associated with general practice training. Objective This study explored whether Australian general practice registrars and their supervisors (trainers) would be able to use, and would be interested in using, a VCoP in the form of a private online network for work and training purposes. It also sought to understand the facilitators and barriers to intention to use such a community, and considers whether any of these factors may be modifiable. Methods A survey was developed assessing computer, Internet, and social media access and usage, confidence, perceived usefulness, and barriers, facilitators, and intentions to use a private online network for training purposes. The survey was sent by email link to all 139 registrars and 224 supervisors in one of Australia’s 17 general practice training regions. Complete and usable responses were received from 131 participants (response rate=0.4). Results Most respondents had access to broadband at home (125/131, 95.4%) and at work (130/131, 99.2%). Registrars were more likely to spend more than 2 hours on the Internet (P=.03), and to use social media sites for nonwork purposes (P=.01). On a 5-point Likert scale, confidence was high (mean 3.93, SD 0.63) and was negatively associated with higher age (P=.04), but not associated with training stage. Social media confidence was lower, with registrars more confident than supervisors for almost all social media activities. On a 5-point Likert scale, overall usefulness was scored positively (n=123, mean 3.63, SD 0.74), and was not significantly associated with age or training level. The main concerns of respondents were worries about privacy (registrar: 61/81, 75.3%; supervisor: 30/50, 60.0%) and insufficient time (registrar: 41/81, 50.6%; supervisor: 36/50, 72.0%). Using a multivariate generalized linear regression model, training stage and perceived usefulness were positively predictive, and concerns about privacy and time were negatively predictive of intention to use a private online network. Conclusions General practice registrars and supervisors are interested in using a private online network, or VCoP, for work and training purposes. Important considerations are the extent to which concerns such as privacy and usefulness may be overcome by training and support to offset some other concerns, such as time barriers. Participants at an early stage in their training are more receptive to using an online network. More senior registrars and supervisors may benefit from more training and promotion of the online network to improve their receptiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Barnett
- Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Urquhart R, Cornelissen E, Lal S, Colquhoun H, Klein G, Richmond S, Witteman HO. A community of practice for knowledge translation trainees: an innovative approach for learning and collaboration. THE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2013; 33:274-281. [PMID: 24347106 DOI: 10.1002/chp.21190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of researchers and trainees identify knowledge translation (KT) as their field of study or practice. Yet, KT educational and professional development opportunities and established KT networks remain relatively uncommon, making it challenging for trainees to develop the necessary skills, networks, and collaborations to optimally work in this area. The Knowledge Translation Trainee Collaborative is a trainee-initiated and trainee-led community of practice established by junior knowledge translation researchers and practitioners to: examine the diversity of knowledge translation research and practice, build networks with other knowledge translation trainees, and advance the field through knowledge generation activities. In this article, we describe how the collaborative serves as an innovative community of practice for continuing education and professional development in knowledge translation and present a logic model that provides a framework for designing an evaluation of its impact as a community of practice. The expectation is that formal and informal networking will lead to knowledge sharing and knowledge generation opportunities that improve individual members' competencies (eg, combination of skills, abilities, and knowledge) in knowledge translation research and practice and contribute to the development and advancement of the knowledge translation field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin Urquhart
- Cancer Outcomes Research Program, Dalhousie University/Capital Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Briggs AM, Bragge P, Slater H, Chan M, Towler SCB. Applying a Health Network approach to translate evidence-informed policy into practice: a review and case study on musculoskeletal health. BMC Health Serv Res 2012; 12:394. [PMID: 23151082 PMCID: PMC3522050 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-12-394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While translation of evidence into health policy and practice is recognised as critical to optimising health system performance and health-related outcomes for consumers, mechanisms to effectively achieve these goals are neither well understood, nor widely communicated. Health Networks represent a framework which offers a possible solution to this dilemma, particularly in light of emerging evidence regarding the importance of establishing relationships between stakeholders and identifying clinical leaders to drive evidence integration and translation into policy. This is particularly important for service delivery related to chronic diseases. In Western Australia (WA), disease and population-specific Health Networks are comprised of cross-discipline stakeholders who work collaboratively to develop evidence-informed policies and drive their implementation. Since establishment of the Health Networks in WA, over 50 evidence-informed Models of Care (MoCs) have been produced across 18 condition or population-focused Networks. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the Health Network framework in facilitating the translation of evidence into policy and practice with a particular focus on musculoskeletal health. CASE PRESENTATION A review of activities of the WA Musculoskeletal Health Network was undertaken, focussing on outcomes and the processes used to achieve them in the context of: development of policy, procurement of funding, stakeholder engagement, publications, and projects undertaken by the Network which aligned to implementation of MoCs.The Musculoskeletal Health Network has developed four MoCs which reflect Australian National Health Priority Areas. Establishment of community-based services for consumers with musculoskeletal health conditions is a key recommendation from these MoCs. Through mapping barriers and enablers to policy implementation, working groups, led by local clinical leaders and supported by the broader Network and government officers, have undertaken a range of integrated projects, such as the establishment of a community-based, multidisciplinary rheumatology service. The success of these projects has been contingent on developing relationships between key stakeholders across the health system. CONCLUSIONS In WA, Networks have provided a sustainable mechanism to meaningfully engage consumers, carers, clinicians and other stakeholders; provided a forum to exchange ideas, information and evidence; and collaboratively plan and deliver evidence-based and contextually-appropriate health system improvements for consumers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Briggs
- Department of Health, Government of Western Australia, GPO Box 8172, Perth Business Centre, WA 6849, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gardner K, Bridges S, Walmsley D. International peer review in undergraduate dentistry: enhancing reflective practice in an online community of practice. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2012; 16:208-212. [PMID: 23050501 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0579.2012.00743.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
To stimulate and enhance student learning in the areas of global citizenship, critical reflection and e-learning, an online international peer review using a purpose-built web platform, has been developed between international dental schools. Since its inception in 2007, n = 6 dental schools from six different countries have participated with n = 384 dental students engaged in online peer review. Project development was conceptually analysed utilising Lave and Wenger's notion of a community of practice (CoP). Analysis drew on the three core components within the CoP organising framework: domain, community and practice. All three components were evident in building project identity. The domain focused on both curriculum and institutional co-operation. The community was evident for both educators and students. Finally, analysis of practice was found to be significant in terms of sustained interaction and collaboration. Empirical evaluation is recommended as the next phase of project design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Gardner
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral Health Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C, Canada.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
David I, Poissant L, Rochette A. Clinicians' expectations of Web 2.0 as a mechanism for knowledge transfer of stroke best practices. J Med Internet Res 2012. [PMID: 23195753 PMCID: PMC3510686 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health professionals are increasingly encouraged to adopt an evidence-based practice to ensure greater efficiency of their services. To promote this practice, several strategies exist: distribution of educational materials, local consensus processes, educational outreach visits, local opinion leaders, and reminders. Despite these strategies, gaps continue to be observed between practice and scientific evidence. Therefore, it is important to implement innovative knowledge transfer strategies that will change health professionals’ practices. Through its interactive capacities, Web 2.0 applications are worth exploring. As an example, virtual communities of practice have already begun to influence professional practice. Objective This study was initially developed to help design a Web 2.0 platform for health professionals working with stroke patients. The aim was to gain a better understanding of professionals’ perceptions of Web 2.0 before the development of the platform. Methods A qualitative study following a phenomenological approach was chosen. We conducted individual semi-structured interviews with clinicians and managers. Interview transcripts were subjected to a content analysis. Results Twenty-four female clinicians and managers in Quebec, Canada, aged 28-66 participated. Most participants identified knowledge transfer as the most useful outcome of a Web 2.0 platform. Respondents also expressed their need for a user-friendly platform. Accessibility to a computer and the Internet, features of the Web 2.0 platform, user support, technology skills, and previous technological experience were found to influence perceived ease of use and usefulness. Our results show that the perceived lack of time of health professionals has an influence on perceived behavioral intention to use it despite favorable perception of the usefulness of the Web 2.0 platform. Conclusions In conclusion, female health professionals in Quebec believe that Web 2.0 may be a useful mechanism for knowledge transfer. However, lack of time and lack of technological skills may limit their use of a future Web 2.0 platform. Further studies are required with other populations and in other regions to confirm these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle David
- Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Barnett S, Jones SC, Bennett S, Iverson D, Bonney A. General practice training and virtual communities of practice - a review of the literature. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2012; 13:87. [PMID: 22905827 PMCID: PMC3515460 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2296-13-87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Good General Practice is essential for an effective health system. Good General Practice training is essential to sustain the workforce, however training for General Practice can be hampered by a number of pressures, including professional, structural and social isolation. General Practice trainees may be under more pressure than fully registered General Practitioners, and yet isolation can lead doctors to reduce hours and move away from rural practice. Virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) in business have been shown to be effective in improving knowledge sharing, thus reducing professional and structural isolation. This literature review will critically examine the current evidence relevant to virtual communities of practice in General Practice training, identify evidence-based principles that might guide their construction and suggest further avenues for research. METHODS Major online databases Scopus, Psychlit and Pubmed were searched for the terms "Community of Practice" (CoP) AND (Online OR Virtual OR Electronic) AND (health OR healthcare OR medicine OR "Allied Health"). Only peer-reviewed journal articles in English were selected. A total of 76 articles were identified, with 23 meeting the inclusion criteria. There were no studies on CoP or VCoP in General Practice training. The review was structured using a framework of six themes for establishing communities of practice, derived from a key study from the business literature. This framework has been used to analyse the literature to determine whether similar themes are present in the health literature and to identify evidence in support of virtual communities of practice for General Practice training. RESULTS The framework developed by Probst is mirrored in the health literature, albeit with some variations. In particular the roles of facilitator or moderator and leader whilst overlapping, are different. VCoPs are usually collaborations between stakeholders rather than single company VCoPs. Specific goals are important, but in specialised health fields sometimes less important than in business. Boundary spanning can involve the interactions of different professional groups, as well as using external experts seen in business VCoPs. There was less use of measurement in health VCoPs. Environments must be supportive as well as risk free. Additional findings were that ease of use of technology is paramount and it is desirable for VCoPs to blend online and face-to-face involvement. CONCLUSIONS The business themes of leadership, sponsorship, objectives and goals, boundary spanning, risk-free environment and measurements become, in the health literature, facilitation, champion and support, objectives and goals, a broad church, supportive environment, measurement benchmarking and feedback, and technology and community.General Practice training is under pressure from isolation and virtual communities of practice may be a way of overcoming isolation. The health literature supports, with some variation, the business CoP framework developed by Probst. Further research is needed to clarify whether this framework is an effective method of health VCoP development and if these VCoPs overcome isolation and thus improve rural retention of General Practice registrars.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Barnett
- Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Dohan M, Xenodemetropoulos T, Tan J. The RCQ Model. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND INFORMATICS 2012. [DOI: 10.4018/jhisi.2012040103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
As society moves into the age of active knowledge management and sharing, inter-clinician relationships and communities of practice can be directed to support quality improvement efforts within healthcare organizations. It is argued that successful adoption of the processes that are critical to quality improvement is necessary for durable improvements in quality. Knowledge sharing is necessary for supporting the skills in performing activities associated with practice audit, change management and use of the associated technology. This paper introduces the Relationships, Communities, Quality (RCQ) model, which provides a framework for the purpose of conceptualizing how quality improvement in healthcare can be sustained. A variance model is proposed for the evaluation of communities of practice for their value in quality improvement in healthcare.
Collapse
|
35
|
Linjawi AI, Walmsley AD, Hill KB. Online discussion boards in dental education: potential and challenges. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2012; 16:e3-9. [PMID: 22251350 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0579.2010.00662.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online discussion boards may enhance critical analysis and reflection, and promote the acquisition of knowledge. AIMS To assess the effectiveness of online discussion board as a pedagogical tool in augmenting face-to-face teaching in dental education. METHOD Data were collected from a discussion archive offered through the E-course website of the School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, UK in 2008. A multi-component metric included; participation, social learning, cognitive processing, role of instructors, and quality of discussion. Messages were coded for 14 variables to evaluate these dimensions. Data were analyzed using content analysis methodology and a complete message was uses as the unit of analysis. RESULTS There were no significant difference in participation between students and instructors (P<0.05). Social interaction with peers appeared only through students posting messages with open questions (27/135 messages). The discussion board was mainly used by students to understand concepts (27/102 messages) and apply procedural knowledge (17/102 messages). Instructors were mainly replying to students' messages with (49/120 messages) or without (54/120 messages) proposing another action. CONCLUSIONS Online discussion boards were found to be successful pedagogical tools in dental education. Further development of instructor-led discussion approach is needed to promote higher level learning and collaborative thinking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A I Linjawi
- Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdul-Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Development and Validation of an Online Interactive, Multimedia Wound Care Algorithms Program. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs 2012; 39:23-34. [DOI: 10.1097/won.0b013e3182383f07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
37
|
Ranmuthugala G, Plumb JJ, Cunningham FC, Georgiou A, Westbrook JI, Braithwaite J. How and why are communities of practice established in the healthcare sector? A systematic review of the literature. BMC Health Serv Res 2011; 11:273. [PMID: 21999305 PMCID: PMC3219728 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-11-273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 10/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Communities of Practice (CoPs) are promoted in the healthcare sector as a means of generating and sharing knowledge and improving organisational performance. However CoPs vary considerably in the way they are structured and operate in the sector. If CoPs are to be cultivated to benefit healthcare organisations, there is a need to examine and understand their application to date. To this end, a systematic review of the literature on CoPs was conducted, to examine how and why CoPs have been established and whether they have been shown to improve healthcare practice. Methods Peer-reviewed empirical research papers on CoPs in the healthcare sector were identified by searching electronic health-databases. Information on the purpose of establishing CoPs, their composition, methods by which members communicate and share information or knowledge, and research methods used to examine effectiveness was extracted and reviewed. Also examined was evidence of whether or not CoPs led to a change in healthcare practice. Results Thirty-one primary research papers and two systematic reviews were identified and reviewed in detail. There was a trend from descriptive to evaluative research. The focus of CoPs in earlier publications was on learning and exchanging information and knowledge, whereas in more recently published research, CoPs were used more as a tool to improve clinical practice and to facilitate the implementation of evidence-based practice. Means by which members communicated with each other varied, but in none of the primary research studies was the method of communication examined in terms of the CoP achieving its objectives. Researchers are increasing their efforts to assess the effectiveness of CoPs in healthcare, however the interventions have been complex and multifaceted, making it difficult to directly attribute the change to the CoP. Conclusions In keeping with Wenger and colleagues' description, CoPs in the healthcare sector vary in form and purpose. While researchers are increasing their efforts to examine the impact of CoPs in healthcare, cultivating CoPs to improve healthcare performance requires a greater understanding of how to establish and support CoPs to maximise their potential to improve healthcare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geetha Ranmuthugala
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Nephrology nurse educators face many challenges related to professional development and resource sharing. In Australia and New Zealand, as well as other countries where the 'tyranny of distance' is a feature, access, equity and lack of educational support due to the geographical isolation of many nephrology units, present particular challenges. This paper reports the findings from a case study of 51 nephrology nurse educators in Australia. Using an exploratory descriptive approach, the study aimed to identify current issues facing nephrology nurse educators and determine the feasibility of developing an online community of practice to support them in their role. An outcome of the study was the establishment of The Nephrology Educators' Network. This network seeks to enhance peer support, collegiality, critical companionship, collaboration, knowledge sharing and the benchmarking of practices for those involved in nephrology nurse education. In this paper, we describe and reflect on some of the outcomes and challenges faced in developing this network.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Sinclair
- University of Newcastle - School of Nursing & Midwifery Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Nambisan P. Information seeking and social support in online health communities: impact on patients' perceived empathy. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2011. [PMID: 21486888 DOI: 10.1136/amiajnl-2010-000058.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many healthcare organizations (HCOs) including Kaiser Permanente, Johns Hopkins, Cleveland Medical Center, and MD Anderson Cancer Center, provide access to online health communities as part of their overall patient support services. The key objective in establishing and running these online health communities is to offer empathic support to patients. Patients' perceived empathy is considered to be critical in patient recovery, specifically, by enhancing patient's compliance with treatment protocols and the pace of healing. Most online health communities are characterized by two main functions: informational support and social support. This study examines the relative impact of these two distinct functions-that is, as an information seeking forum and as a social support forum-on patients' perceived empathy in online health communities. DESIGN This study tests the impact of two variables that reflect the above functions of online health communities-information seeking effectiveness and perceived social support-on perceived empathy. The model also incorporates the potential moderating effect of homophily on these relationships. MEASUREMENTS A web-based survey was used to collect data from members of the online health communities provided by three major healthcare centers. A regression technique was used to analyze the data to test the hypotheses. RESULTS The study finds that it is the information seeking effectiveness rather than the social support which affects patient's perceived empathy in online health communities run by HCOs. The results indicate that HCOs that provide online health communities for their patients need to focus more on developing tools that will make information seeking more effective and efficient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priya Nambisan
- Department of Health Policy, Management and Behavior, School of Public Health, University at Albany, SUNY, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Nambisan P. Information seeking and social support in online health communities: impact on patients' perceived empathy. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2011; 18:298-304. [PMID: 21486888 PMCID: PMC3078657 DOI: 10.1136/amiajnl-2010-000058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2010] [Accepted: 02/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many healthcare organizations (HCOs) including Kaiser Permanente, Johns Hopkins, Cleveland Medical Center, and MD Anderson Cancer Center, provide access to online health communities as part of their overall patient support services. The key objective in establishing and running these online health communities is to offer empathic support to patients. Patients' perceived empathy is considered to be critical in patient recovery, specifically, by enhancing patient's compliance with treatment protocols and the pace of healing. Most online health communities are characterized by two main functions: informational support and social support. This study examines the relative impact of these two distinct functions-that is, as an information seeking forum and as a social support forum-on patients' perceived empathy in online health communities. DESIGN This study tests the impact of two variables that reflect the above functions of online health communities-information seeking effectiveness and perceived social support-on perceived empathy. The model also incorporates the potential moderating effect of homophily on these relationships. MEASUREMENTS A web-based survey was used to collect data from members of the online health communities provided by three major healthcare centers. A regression technique was used to analyze the data to test the hypotheses. RESULTS The study finds that it is the information seeking effectiveness rather than the social support which affects patient's perceived empathy in online health communities run by HCOs. The results indicate that HCOs that provide online health communities for their patients need to focus more on developing tools that will make information seeking more effective and efficient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priya Nambisan
- Department of Health Policy, Management and Behavior, School of Public Health, University at Albany, SUNY, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Haines SL, DeHart RM, Flynn AA, Hess KM, Marciniak MW, Mount J, Phillips BB, Saseen JJ, Whitney Zatzkin S. Academic pharmacy and patient-centered health care: A model to prepare the next generation of pharmacists. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2011; 51:194-202. [DOI: 10.1331/japha.2011.10158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
42
|
Pletcher SN, Rodi SW. Web-based morbidity and mortality conferencing: a model for rural medical education. THE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2011; 31:128-133. [PMID: 21671280 DOI: 10.1002/chp.20117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Transfer of patients from rural emergency departments to tertiary centers can improve outcomes. The transfer process is complex and often ad hoc, inefficient, duplicative, and frustrating to both patients and providers. Suboptimal transfer undermines quality of care, raises costs, and delays services. Unfortunately, the same barriers that make transfer necessary (limited resources, geographic isolation) also hamper effective review. In this article, we describe a Web-based, interactive morbidity and mortality conference series in which providers reviewed cases transferred from rural emergency departments to a tertiary center. Six case-review conferences were conducted over 8 months. Each involved an average of 20 providers representing a total of 7 hospitals. Learning resources (ie, care protocols, best practice reviews, literature reviews) were developed collaboratively and disseminated among participating hospitals following the case-review conferences. Participant responses were highly favorable: 100% found the case reviews "very useful" or "useful" and 100% strongly agreed that the reviews would improve quality of patient care. We conclude that Web-based technology can efficiently facilitate review of transfers and has the potential to positively impact patient care. Future studies should utilize standard validated survey instruments of a larger number of participants to better understand the impact of this intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah N Pletcher
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|