Interprofessional health teams for integrated care

Abstract

Evidence shows that interprofessional teams are essential for improving health systems’ ability to meet the population’s health needs and respond to health emergencies. Interprofessional collaboration improves health outcomes by decreasing morbidity and mortality; increasing patient satisfaction; contributing to healthcare worker retention by reducing extra work and increasing job satisfaction; and reducing medical errors and preventable complications. However, organizing interprofessional teams in real healthcare settings in the Region of the Americas has proved more challenging than expected. This publication introduces a conceptual framework with core elements for consideration by policymakers and health managers in organizing and strengthening interprofessional teams. In addition, it provides practical guidance to support and facilitate the incorporation of interprofessional teams into health service delivery networks in real settings at the local level. It also suggests how to assess interprofessional teamwork and support its continuity after initial incorporation, and lists five outcomes that may be measured as a result of the implementation process.