A Newly Proposed Patient Inclusion Model for Interprofessional Healthcare
Background:
Current models of interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP) appear to focus on the patient as the object of care despite the attempt for inclusion. Studies regarding IPCP are focal to healthcare professionals and patients are rarely included. A gap was identified regarding IPCP from the patient perspective.
Design/Methodology:
An original phenomenological qualitative study was conducted to explore the communication experiences of Standardized Patients (SPs) during tele-simulation encounters. Qualitative analyses were conducted via In-vivo coding (Saldaña, 2021) and thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Intercoder reliability was obtained through written and verbal collaboration across researchers.
Results:
Two themes of patient focus emerged; demonstration of respect and empathy. Further exploration indicated patients' perceptions of power and exclusion, implying perceptions of objectification rather than inclusion. The results align with Watson’s (1997) theory of human caring and offer opportunities for further exploration of healthcare partnerships. Partnership and reciprocal respect and empathy may lead to improved healthcare.
Conclusion:
Patients expressed desire for inclusion on the healthcare team, while being the central focus of care, rather than objectification. Thus, an alternative to the current IPCP model (D’Amour & Oandasan, 2005) was developed. The Interprofessional Healthcare Team Model (IPHTM; Conkle & Baker-Rush, 2023) offers a new IPCP model where equity, inclusion, and engagement of the patient is consistent with professionals.
Reflection:
The patient is an expert in their socioeconomic status and feasibility more so than the healthcare professionals. The newly proposed IPHTM model may serve as a catalyst for change with the intention that all healthcare team members identify and accept the patient as an equal and an expert on the IPCP team.
Description:
In a newly proposed model, no isolation occurs and all members of the healthcare team, including the patient, are considered experts in various areas. The collaboration of these experts yields a comprehensive approach to healthcare including social determinants of health. This supports the Quadruple Aim by enhancing the patient experience of care, advancing health equity, and promoting healthcare team wellness through the symbiotic relationship of the patient and healthcare professionals. Lastly, this research provides support for additional work addressing the patient perspective, patient needs, and the quality of care the patient receives.