1
|
Noar AP, Jeffery HE, Subbiah Ponniah H, Jaffer U. The aims and effectiveness of communities of practice in healthcare: A systematic review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292343. [PMID: 37815986 PMCID: PMC10564133 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Communities of practice (CoPs) are defined as "groups of people who share a concern, a set of problems, or a passion about a topic, and who deepen their knowledge and expertise by interacting on an ongoing basis". They are an effective form of knowledge management that have been successfully used in the business sector and increasingly so in healthcare. In May 2023 the electronic databases MEDLINE and EMBASE were systematically searched for primary research studies on CoPs published between 1st January 1950 and 31st December 2022. PRISMA guidelines were followed. The following search terms were used: community/communities of practice AND (healthcare OR medicine OR patient/s). The database search picked up 2009 studies for screening. Of these, 50 papers met the inclusion criteria. The most common aim of CoPs was to directly improve a clinical outcome, with 19 studies aiming to achieve this. In terms of outcomes, qualitative outcomes were the most common measure used in 21 studies. Only 11 of the studies with a quantitative element had the appropriate statistical methodology to report significance. Of the 9 studies that showed a statistically significant effect, 5 showed improvements in hospital-based provision of services such as discharge planning or rehabilitation services. 2 of the studies showed improvements in primary-care, such as management of hepatitis C, and 2 studies showed improvements in direct clinical outcomes, such as central line infections. CoPs in healthcare are aimed at improving clinical outcomes and have been shown to be effective. There is still progress to be made and a need for further studies with more rigorous methodologies, such as RCTs, to provide further support of the causality of CoPs on outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P. Noar
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Highgate Mental Health Centre, Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah E. Jeffery
- Department of General Surgery, East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | - Hariharan Subbiah Ponniah
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Usman Jaffer
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Arnold C, Hennrich P, Wensing M, Ullrich C. Keeping up with evidence-based recommendations - a qualitative interview study with general practitioners in Germany on information-seeking behaviour in cardiovascular care. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:118. [PMID: 37231391 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the nature of their work, general practitioners (GPs) need to be up to date with evidence in various medical domains. While much synthesised research evidence is easily accessible nowadays, in practice, the time to search for and review this evidence proposes a challenge. In German primary care, the knowledge infrastructure is rather fragmented, leaving GPs with relatively few primary care specific resources of information and many resources from other medical fields. This study aimed to explore GPs information-seeking behaviour regarding evidence-based recommendations in cardiovascular care in Germany. METHODS To explore views of GPs a qualitative research design was chosen. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews. In total, 27 telephone interviews with GPs were conducted between June and November 2021.Verbatim transcript interviews were then analysed using thematic analysis, deriving at themes inductively. RESULTS Two broad strategies of information-seeking behaviour in GP could be distinguished: (a) generic information-seeking behaviour and (b) casuistic information-seeking. The first referring to strategies GPs apply to keep up with medical developments such as new medication and the second referring to purposeful information exchange regarding individual patients, such as referral letters. The second strategy was also used to keep up with medical developments in general. CONCLUSION In a fragmented information landscape, GPs used information exchange on individual patients to remain informed about medical developments in general. Initiatives to implement recommended practices need to take this into account, either by using these sources of influence or by making GPs aware of possible bias and risks. The findings also emphasize the importance of systematic evidence-based sources of information for GPs. TRAIL REGISTRATION We registered the study prospectively on 07/11/2019 at the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS, www.drks.de ) under ID no. DRKS00019219.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Arnold
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Friedbühlstrasse 19, Bern, 3010, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Hennrich
- Section for Translational Health Economics, Department for Conservative Dentistry, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michel Wensing
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Ullrich
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Deng Z, Deng Z, Liu S, Evans R. Knowledge transfer between physicians from different geographical regions in China's online health communities. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & MANAGEMENT 2023:1-18. [PMID: 37359990 PMCID: PMC10196303 DOI: 10.1007/s10799-023-00400-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Online Health Communities (OHCs) are a type of self-organizing platform that provide users with access to social support, information, and knowledge transfer opportunities. The medical expertise of registered physicians in OHCs plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of online medical services. However, few studies have examined the effectiveness of OHCs in transferring knowledge between physicians and most do not distinguish between the explicit and tacit knowledge transferred between physicians. This study aims to demonstrate the cross-regional transfer characteristics of medical knowledge, especially tacit and explicit knowledge. Based on data collected from 4716 registered physicians on Lilac Garden (DXY.cn), a leading Chinese OHC, Exponential Random Graph Models are used to (1) examine the overall network and two subnets of tacit and explicit knowledge (i.e., clinical skills and medical information), and (2) identify patterns in the knowledge transferred between physicians, based on regional variations. Analysis of the network shows that physicians located in economically developed regions or regions with sufficient workforces are more likely to transfer medical knowledge to those from poorer regions. Analysis of the subnets demonstrate that only Gross Domestic Product (GDP) flows are supported in the clinical skill network since discussions around tacit knowledge are a direct manifestation of physicians' professional abilities. These findings extend current understanding about social value creation in OHCs by examining the medical knowledge flows generated by physicians between regions with different health resources. Moreover, this study demonstrates the cross-regional transfer characteristics of explicit and tacit knowledge to complement the literature on the effectiveness of OHCs to transfer different types of knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Deng
- School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074 China
| | - Zhaohua Deng
- School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074 China
| | - Shan Liu
- School of Management, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 China
| | - Richard Evans
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mazza D, Shankar M, Botfield JR, Moulton JE, Chakraborty SP, Black K, Tomnay J, Bateson D, Church J, Laba TL, Kasza J, Norman WV. Improving rural and regional access to long-acting reversible contraception and medical abortion through nurse-led models of care, task-sharing and telehealth (ORIENT): a protocol for a stepped-wedge pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled trial in Australian general practice. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e065137. [PMID: 36948556 PMCID: PMC10040016 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women living in rural and regional Australia often experience difficulties in accessing long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) and medical abortion services. Nurse-led models of care can improve access to these services but have not been evaluated in Australian general practice. The primary aim of the ORIENT trial (ImprOving Rural and regIonal accEss to long acting reversible contraceptioN and medical abortion through nurse-led models of care, Tasksharing and telehealth) is to assess the effectiveness of a nurse-led model of care in general practice at increasing uptake of LARC and improving access to medical abortion in rural and regional areas. METHODS AND ANALYSIS ORIENT is a stepped-wedge pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled trial. We will enrol 32 general practices (clusters) in rural or regional Australia, that have at least two general practitioners, one practice nurse and one practice manager. The nurse-led model of care (the intervention) will be codesigned with key women's health stakeholders. Clusters will be randomised to implement the model sequentially, with the comparator being usual care. Clusters will receive implementation support through clinical upskilling, educational outreach and engagement in an online community of practice. The primary outcome is the change in the rate of LARC prescribing comparing control and intervention phases; secondary outcomes include change in the rate of medical abortion prescribing and provision of related telehealth services. A within-trial economic analysis will determine the relative costs and benefits of the model on the prescribing rates of LARC and medical abortion compared with usual care. A realist evaluation will provide contextual information regarding model implementation informing considerations for scale-up. Supporting nurses to work to their full scope of practice has the potential to increase LARC and medical abortion access in rural and regional Australia. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was obtained from the Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee (Project ID: 29476). Findings will be disseminated via multiple avenues including a knowledge exchange workshop, policy briefs, conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000086763).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Mazza
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mridula Shankar
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica R Botfield
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica E Moulton
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samantha Paubrey Chakraborty
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kirsten Black
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jane Tomnay
- Department of Rural Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Bateson
- Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jody Church
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation, University of Technology Sydney Faculty of Health, Ultimo, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tracey-Lea Laba
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation, University of Technology Sydney Faculty of Health, Ultimo, New South Wales, Australia
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jessica Kasza
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wendy V Norman
- Department of Family Practice, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, Public Health, Environments & Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yiu S, Yeung M, Cheung WJ, Frank JR. Stress and conflict from tacit culture forges professional identity in newly graduated independent physicians. ADVANCES IN HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION : THEORY AND PRACTICE 2022:10.1007/s10459-022-10173-z. [PMID: 36477578 DOI: 10.1007/s10459-022-10173-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
To transition successfully into independent practice, newly graduated independent physicians (new "attendings") undergo a process of professional identity formation (PIF) as a clinician within a new community of practice (CoP). PIF is crafted by socialization within a CoP including transfer of tacit knowledge. While certain tacit knowledge is critical for professional identity, we understand little how it shapes PIF. We set out to describe the tacit knowledge acquired by new attendings within a CoP and how it contributes to PIF. Informed by constructivist grounded theory, we interviewed 23 new attendings about the tacit knowledge they acquired in early practice. Data collection and analysis occurred iteratively. We identified themes using constant comparative analysis and generated a theory that underwent member checking and feedback. Implicit standards from group culture imparted high expectations on new attendings and led to internal stress. New attendings also encountered a tacit code of conduct as behavioral elements of group culture. These elements created external conflict between new attendings and group members such as departmental colleagues, consulting physicians, and other health professionals. Depending on the support they received, new attendings responded to the stress and conflict in three ways: they doubted, adjusted, or avoided. These strategies molded their professional identity, and moved them towards or away from the CoP as they navigated their transition and PIF. We describe a novel theory of how tacit group culture shaped new attending physicians' professional identity in a new community of practice. Internal stress and external conflict occurred due to high expectations and tacit culture elements. New attendings' doubt, adjust, or avoid responses, shaped by support they received, in turn crafted their professional identity. Education leaders should prepare graduating trainees to navigate aspects of transition to independent practice successfully.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stella Yiu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, 1053 Carling Avenue, K1Y 4E9, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Marianne Yeung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, 1053 Carling Avenue, K1Y 4E9, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Warren J Cheung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, 1053 Carling Avenue, K1Y 4E9, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians of Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Jason R Frank
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, 1053 Carling Avenue, K1Y 4E9, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhao J, Harvey G, Vandyk A, Huang M, Hu J, Modanloo S, Gifford W. Understanding How and Under What Circumstances Social Media Supports Health Care Providers' Knowledge Use in Clinical Practice: A Realist Review. Telemed J E Health 2022; 29:475-500. [PMID: 35994025 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although theoretical frameworks exist to guide social media interventions, few of them make it explicit how social media is supposed to work to improve the knowledge use by health care providers. This study aimed to synthesize literature to understand how and under what circumstances social media supports knowledge use by health care providers in clinical practice. Methods: We followed the realist review methodology described by Pawson et al. It involved six iterative steps: (1) develop an initial program theory; (2) search for evidence; (3) select and appraise studies; (4) extract data; (5) synthesize data; and (6) draw conclusions. Results: Of the 7,175 citations retrieved, 32 documents were prioritized for synthesis. We identified two causal explanations of how social media could support health care providers' knowledge use, each underpinned by distinct context-mechanism-outcome (CMO) configurations. We defined these causal explanations as: (1) the rationality-driven approach that primarily uses open social media platforms (n = 8 CMOs) such as Twitter, and (2) the relationality-driven approach that primarily uses closed social media platforms (n = 6 CMOs) such as an online community of practice. Key mechanisms of the rationality-driven approach included social media content developers capabilities and capacities, in addition to recipients' access to, perceptions of, engagement with, and intentions to use the messages, and ability to function autonomously within their full scope of practice. However, the relationality-driven approach encompassed platform receptivity, a sense of common goals, belonging, trust and ownership, accessibility to expertise, and the fulfillment of needs as key mechanisms. Conclusion: Social media has the potential to support knowledge use by health care providers. Future research is necessary to refine the two causal explanations and investigate their potential synergistic effects on practice change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junqiang Zhao
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Center for Research on Health and Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gillian Harvey
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Amanda Vandyk
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Center for Research on Health and Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mandy Huang
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Center for Research on Health and Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jiale Hu
- Department of Nurse Anesthesia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Shokoufeh Modanloo
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wendy Gifford
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Center for Research on Health and Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cleland J, MacLeod A. Disruption in the space-time continuum: why digital ethnography matters. ADVANCES IN HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION : THEORY AND PRACTICE 2022; 27:877-892. [PMID: 35389151 PMCID: PMC8988472 DOI: 10.1007/s10459-022-10101-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the use of ethnography as a qualitative research approach to explore, in depth, issues of culture in health professions education (HPE). Our specific focus in this article is incorporating the digital into ethnography. Digital technologies are pervasively and increasingly shaping the way we interact, behave, think, and communicate as health professions educators and learners. Understanding the contemporary culture(s) of HPE thus means paying attention to what goes on in digital spaces. In this paper, we critically consider some of the potential issues when the field of ethnography exists outside the space time continuum, including the need to engage with theory in research about technology and digital spaces in HPE. After a very brief review of the few HPE studies that have used digital ethnography, we scrutinize what can be gained when ethnography encompasses the digital world, particularly in relation to untangling sociomaterial aspects of HPE. We chart the shifts inherent in conducting ethnographic research within the digital landscape, specifically those related to research field, the role of the researcher and ethical issues. We then use two examples to illustrate possible HPE research questions and potential strategies for using digital ethnography to answer those questions: using digital tools in the conduct of an ethnographic study and how to conduct an ethnography of a digital space. We conclude that acknowledging the pervasiveness of technologies in the design, delivery and experiences of HPE opens up new research questions which can be addressed by embracing the digital in ethnography.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Cleland
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, 308232, Singapore.
| | - Anna MacLeod
- Division of Medical Education, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mazza D, Chakraborty S, Camões-Costa V, Kenardy J, Brijnath B, Mortimer D, Enticott J, Kidd M, Trevena L, Reid S, Collie A. Implementing work-related Mental health guidelines in general PRacticE (IMPRovE): a protocol for a hybrid III parallel cluster randomised controlled trial. Implement Sci 2021; 16:77. [PMID: 34348743 PMCID: PMC8335858 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-021-01146-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Clinical Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Work-related Mental Health Conditions in General Practice (the Guideline) was published in 2019. The objective of this trial is to implement the Guideline in general practice. TRIAL DESIGN Implementing work-related Mental health conditions in general PRacticE is a hybrid III, parallel cluster randomised controlled trial undertaken in Australia. Its primary aim is to assess the effectiveness of a complex intervention on the implementation of the Guideline in general practice. Secondary aims are to assess patient health and work outcomes, to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the trial, and to develop a plan for sustainability. METHODS A total of 86 GP clusters will be randomly allocated either to the intervention arm, where they will receive a complex intervention comprising academic detailing, enrolment in a community of practice and resources, or to the control arm, where they will not receive the intervention. GP guideline concordance will be assessed at baseline and 9 months using virtual simulated patient scenarios. Patients who meet the eligibility criteria (>18years, employed, and receiving care from a participating GP for a suspected or confirmed work-related mental health condition) will be invited to complete surveys about their health and work participation and provide access to their health service use data. Data on health service use and work participation compensation claim data will be combined with measures of guideline concordance and patient outcomes to inform an economic evaluation. A realist evaluation will be conducted to inform the development of a plan for sustainability. RESULTS We anticipate that GPs who receive the intervention will have higher guideline concordance than GPs in the control group. We also anticipate that higher concordance will translate to better health and return-to-work outcomes for patients, as well as cost-savings to society. CONCLUSIONS The trial builds on a body of work defining the role of GPs in compensable injury, exploring their concerns, and developing evidence-based guidelines to address them. Implementation of these guidelines has the potential to deliver improvements in GP care, patient health, and return-to-work outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION ACTRN12620001163998 , November 2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Mazza
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | | | - Vera Camões-Costa
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Bianca Brijnath
- National Ageing Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Duncan Mortimer
- Centre for Health Economics, Monash Business School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joanne Enticott
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael Kidd
- College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Lyndal Trevena
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Sharon Reid
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Alex Collie
- Insurance Work and Health Group, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Livergant RJ, Ludlow NC, McBrien KA. Needs assessment for the creation of a community of practice in a community health navigator cohort. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:657. [PMID: 34225704 PMCID: PMC8256652 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06507-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community Health Navigators (CHNs) are members of a patient's care team that aim to reduce barriers in accessing healthcare. CHNs have been described in various healthcare settings, including chronic disease management. The ENhancing COMmunity health through Patient navigation, Advocacy, and Social Support (ENCOMPASS) program of research employs CHNs, who are trained to improve access to care and community resources for patients with multiple chronic diseases. With complex and demanding roles, it is essential that CHNs communicate with each other to maintain knowledge exchange and best practices. A Community of Practice (CoP) is a model of situated learning that promotes communication, dedication, and collaboration that can facilitate this communication. The objective of this study was to engage with CHNs to determine how a CoP could be implemented to promote consistency in practices and knowledge for CHNs across primary care sites. METHODS A needs assessment for a CHN CoP was conducted using sequential steps of inquiry. A preliminary focused literature review (FLR) was done to examine the ways in which other healthcare CoPs have been implemented. Results from the FLR guided the creation of an exploratory survey and group interview with key informants to understand best approaches for CoP creation. Political, economic, social, and technological (PEST) and strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analyses synthesized results in a comprehensive manner for strategic recommendations. RESULTS The FLR identified different approaches and components of healthcare CoPs and guided analyses of mitigatable risk factors and leverageable assets for the intervention. The survey and group interview revealed an informal and effective CoP amongst current CHNs, with preferred methods including coffee meetings, group trainings, and seminars. A well-maintained web platform with features such as an encrypted discussion forum, community resource listing, calendar of events, and semi-annual CHN conferences were suggested methods for creating an inter-regional, formal CoP. CONCLUSION The study findings recognise the presence of an informal CoP within the studied CHN cohort. Implementation of a formal CoP should complement current CoP approaches and aid in facilitating expansion to other primary care centres utilizing digital communication methods, such as a comprehensive web platform and online forum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel J Livergant
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Natalie C Ludlow
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Kerry A McBrien
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
GPs' mindlines on deprescribing antihypertensives in older patients with multimorbidity: a qualitative study in English general practice. Br J Gen Pract 2021; 71:e498-e507. [PMID: 34001537 PMCID: PMC8249009 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp21x714305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Optimal management of hypertension in older patients with multimorbidity is a cornerstone of primary care practice. Despite emphasis on personalised approaches to treatment in older patients, there is little guidance on how to achieve medication reduction when GPs are concerned that possible risks outweigh potential benefits of treatment. Mindlines — tacit, internalised guidelines developed over time from multiple sources — may be of particular importance in such situations. Aim To explore GPs’ decision-making on deprescribing antihypertensives in patients with multimorbidity aged ≥80 years, drawing on the concept of mindlines. Design and setting Qualitative interview study set in English general practice. Method Thematic analysis of face-to-face interviews with a sample of 15 GPs from seven practices in the East of England, using a chart-stimulated recall approach to explore approaches to treatment for older patients with multimorbidity with hypertension. Results GPs are typically confident making decisions to deprescribe antihypertensive medication in older patients with multimorbidity when prompted by a trigger, such as a fall or adverse drug event. GPs are less confident to attempt deprescribing in response to generalised concerns about polypharmacy, and work hard to make sense of multiple sources (including available evidence, shared experiential knowledge, and non-clinical factors) to guide decision-making. Conclusion In the absence of a clear evidence base on when and how to attempt medication reduction in response to concerns about polypharmacy, GPs develop ‘mindlines’ over time through practicebased experience. These tacit approaches to making complex decisions are critical to developing confidence to attempt deprescribing and may be strengthened through reflective practice.
Collapse
|
11
|
Wieringa S, Engebretsen E, Heggen K, Greenhalgh T. Clinical guidelines and the pursuit of reducing epistemic uncertainty. An ethnographic study of guideline development panels in three countries. Soc Sci Med 2021; 272:113702. [PMID: 33548773 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore, from a philosophy of knowledge perspective, the contribution of the guideline development process to reducing epistemic uncertainty in clinical decision-making - defined as the challenge of applying evidence to patients, dealing with conflicting information and determining the level of confidence in a medical conclusion. METHODS Longitudinal ethnographic study of national guideline development panels. Fieldnotes were collected from 19 panel meetings in UK, Netherlands and Norway (~120 h of observation) between September 2016 and February 2019. Draft guidelines, review protocols and background material were collated (~200 documents). Data were analyzed thematically to gain familiarity and then theorized using concepts of knowledge development and use and clinical decision-making. RESULTS Guideline development panels in all three countries wrestled with epistemic tensions - notably between the desire to "purify" an assumed external truth (for example by limiting included evidence to high-quality randomized controlled trials) and a more pragmatic and pluralist approach that drew on a wider range of evidence including qualitative research, real-world data, clinical experience and patient testimony. Detailed analysis of the process by which particular guideline recommendations were constructed allowed us to draw out the implications of these tensions for guideline users in clinical practice. CONCLUSION Guideline development panels apply multiple - often conflicting - understandings of knowledge, inference and truth in an attempt to reduce epistemic uncertainty. Guidelines makers, clinicians, scientists and students should engage critically and reflexively with the philosophical assumptions that underpin guideline development and inductive inference to build capability to deal with clinical complexity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sietse Wieringa
- Primary Care Health Sciences at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Kristin Heggen
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trish Greenhalgh
- Primary Care Health Sciences at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dadich A, Piper A, Coates D. Implementation science in maternity care: a scoping review. Implement Sci 2021; 16:16. [PMID: 33541371 PMCID: PMC7860184 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-021-01083-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite wide recognition that clinical care should be informed by the best available evidence, this does not always occur. Despite a myriad of theories, models and frameworks to promote evidence-based population health, there is still a long way to go, particularly in maternity care. The aim of this study is to appraise the scientific study of methods to promote the systematic uptake of evidence-based interventions in maternity care. This is achieved by clarifying if and how implementation science theories, models, and frameworks are used. METHODS To map relevant literature, a scoping review was conducted of articles published between January 2005 and December 2019, guided by Peters and colleagues' (2015) approach. Specifically, the following academic databases were systematically searched to identify publications that presented findings on implementation science or the implementation process (rather than just the intervention effect): Business Source Complete; CINAHL Plus with Full Text; Health Business Elite; Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition; Medline; PsycARTICLES; PsycINFO; and PubMed. Information about each study was extracted using a purposely designed data extraction form. RESULTS Of the 1181 publications identified, 158 were included in this review. Most of these reported on factors that enabled implementation, including knowledge, training, service provider motivation, effective multilevel coordination, leadership and effective communication-yet there was limited expressed use of a theory, model or framework to guide implementation. Of the 158 publications, 144 solely reported on factors that helped and/or hindered implementation, while only 14 reported the use of a theory, model and/or framework. When a theory, model or framework was used, it typically guided data analysis or, to a lesser extent, the development of data collection tools-rather than for instance, the design of the study. CONCLUSION Given that models and frameworks can help to describe phenomenon, and theories can help to both describe and explain it, evidence-based maternity care might be promoted via the greater expressed use of these to ultimately inform implementation science. Specifically, advancing evidence-based maternity care, worldwide, will require the academic community to make greater explicit and judicious use of theories, models, and frameworks. REGISTRATION Registered with the Joanna Briggs Institute (registration number not provided).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Dadich
- Western Sydney University, School of Business, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Annika Piper
- Western Sydney University, School of Business, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Dominiek Coates
- University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, PO Box 123, Ultimo, NSW 2007 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Parents and families of children with cancer and blood disorders increasingly turn to social media to connect with families facing similar challenges. These multidirectional interactions on social media are not only sources of psychosocial support but frequently sources of medical information. Consequently, such interactions have the potential to meaningfully impact the relationships between parents, children, and pediatric hematology/oncology providers. The 3 case studies analyzed here illustrate the spectrum of ethical and communication issues that arise when families' use of social media enters the pediatric clinical space, including questions related to trust and mistrust, misinformation, patient privacy and confidentiality, and allocation of resources, including time. Ideal approaches to resolving dilemmas related to parental social media use are those that maintain respect, build trust, and acknowledge the changing culture. Social media use is now the norm. Promoting transparent discussions of its use between families and health professionals is, therefore, the key to optimizing health outcomes for children whose parents turn to social media. Mutual respect, collaboration, and long-term relationships are also potential antidotes to the spread of misinformation and mistrust through social media.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Caruso Brown
- Center for Bioethics and Humanities
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cowdell F. Knowledge mobilisation: an ethnographic study of the influence of practitioner mindlines on atopic eczema self-management in primary care in the UK. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e025220. [PMID: 31350238 PMCID: PMC6661925 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore how atopic eczema specific mindlines are developed by primary care practitioners. DESIGN Ethnographic study. SETTING One large, urban general practice in central England. PARTICIPANTS In observation, all practitioners and support staff in the practice and in interviews a diverse group of practitioners (n=16). RESULTS Observation of over 250 hours and interview data were combined and analysed using an ethnographic approach through the lenses of mindlines and self-management. Three themes were identified: beliefs about eczema, eczema knowledge and approaches to self-management. Eczema mindlines are set against a backdrop of it being a low priority and not managed as a long-term condition. Practitioners believed that eczema is simple to manage with little change in treatments available and prescribing limited by local formularies. Practice is largely based on tacit knowledge and experience. Self-management is expected but not often explicitly facilitated. Clinical decisions are made from knowledge accumulated over time. Societal and technological developments have altered the way in which practitioner mindlines are developed; in eczema, for most, they are relatively static. CONCLUSIONS The outstanding challenge is to find novel, profession and context-specific, simple, pragmatic strategies to revise or modify practitioner mindlines by adding reliable and useful knowledge and by erasing outdated or inaccurate information thus potentially improve quality of eczema care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Cowdell
- Faculty of Health Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lander B, Balka E. Exploring How Evidence is Used in Care Through an Organizational Ethnography of Two Teaching Hospitals. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e10769. [PMID: 30920371 PMCID: PMC6458541 DOI: 10.2196/10769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous published articles show that clinicians do not follow clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). However, a few studies explore what clinicians consider evidence and how they use different forms of evidence in their care decisions. Many of these existing studies occurred before the advent of smartphones and advanced Web-based information retrieval technologies. It is important to understand how these new technologies influence the ways clinicians use evidence in their clinical practice. Mindlines are a concept that explores how clinicians draw on different sources of information (including context, experience, medical training, and evidence) to develop collectively reinforced, internalized tacit guidelines. Objective The aim of this paper was to explore how evidence is integrated into mindline development and the everyday use of mindlines and evidence in care. Methods We draw on ethnographic data collected by shadowing internal medicine teams at 2 teaching hospitals. Fieldnotes were tagged by evidence category, teaching and care, and role of the person referencing evidence. Counts of these tags were integrated with fieldnote vignettes and memos. The findings were verified with an advisory council and through member checks. Results CPGs represent just one of several sources of evidence used when making care decisions. Some forms of evidence were predominately invoked from mindlines, whereas other forms were read to supplement mindlines. The majority of scientific evidence was accessed on the Web, often through smartphones. How evidence was used varied by role. As team members gained experience, they increasingly incorporated evidence into their mindlines. Evidence was often blended together to arrive at shared understandings and approaches to patient care that included ways to filter evidence. Conclusions This paper outlines one way through which the ethos of evidence-based medicine has been incorporated into the daily work of care. Here, multiple Web-based forms of evidence were mixed with other information. This is different from the way that is often articulated by health administrators and policy makers whereby clinical practice guideline adherence is equated with practicing evidence-based medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryn Lander
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Communication, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Ellen Balka
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Communication, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Dadich A, Doloswala N. What can organisational theory offer knowledge translation in healthcare? A thematic and lexical analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:351. [PMID: 29747627 PMCID: PMC5946475 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3121-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the relative abundance of frameworks and models to guide implementation science, the explicit use of theory is limited. Bringing together two seemingly disparate fields of research, this article asks, what can organisational theory offer implementation science? This is examined by applying a theoretical lens that incorporates agency, institutional, and situated change theories to understand the implementation of healthcare knowledge into practice. METHODS Interviews were conducted with 20 general practitioners (GPs) before and after using a resource to facilitate evidence-based sexual healthcare. Research material was analysed using two approaches - researcher-driven thematic coding and lexical analysis, which was relatively less researcher-driven. RESULTS The theoretical lens elucidated the complex pathways of knowledge translation. More specifically, agency theory revealed tensions between the GP as agent and their organisations and patients as principals. Institutional theory highlighted the importance of GP-embeddedness within their chosen specialty of general practice; their medical profession; and the practice in which they worked. Situated change theory exposed the role of localised adaptations over time - a metamorphosis. CONCLUSIONS This study has theoretical, methodological, and practical implications. Theoretically, it is the first to examine knowledge translation using a lens premised on agency, institutional, and situated change theories. Methodologically, the study highlights the complementary value of researcher-driven and researcher-guided analysis of qualitative research material. Practically, this study signposts opportunities to facilitate knowledge translation - more specifically, it suggests that efforts to shape clinician practices should accommodate the interrelated influence of the agent and the institution, and recognise that change can be ever so subtle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Dadich
- School of Business, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
| | - Navin Doloswala
- School of Humanities and Communication Arts, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| |
Collapse
|