Interprofessional communication: good, better, best? Development of a toolkit for teams within primary care

Interprofessional communication is very important, but too often ineffective

During primary care reforms, this was understood. Thus, in situations with complex care needs, an interprofessional care team is often set up. Here, a care coordinator is appointed whose tasks include monitoring the interprofessional consultation. The aim is to guarantee continuity and quality of care. In practice, the task of care coordinator is often taken up by a nurse.

Interprofessional communication is often ineffective. Literature indicates that caregivers are not sufficiently brought together and have little knowledge of each other's roles. There is a difference in communication style between disciplines and little trust and respect between those involved. As a result, information flow is not optimal. It also appears that, in practice, there is no open communication between doctors and nurses. Disciplines are not always on the same wavelength, with caregivers feeling they are not allowed to express their own opinions. As a result, problems and concerns are taken personally instead of being seen as an opportunity to improve the quality of care.

Measuring interprofessional communication allows improvement

Interprofessional communication is considered a basic skill, but what is the state of 'communication and collaboration' in practice? And how can we improve communication and collaboration in practice?

We address these questions in 3 phases:

• description of the components of good interprofessional communication
• development and validation of an instrument that objectively measures interprofessional communication between healthcare providers
• supporting teams to improve their interprofessional communication using a developed toolkit.