Conceptual framework: factors enabling collaborative healthcare and social services integration

Abstract

PurposeA conceptual framework for collaboratively based integrated health and social care (IHSC) integration is proposed to aid in understanding how to accomplish IHSC.Design/methodology/approachThis model is based on extant literature of successfully IHSC initiatives.FindingsThe model aims to identify enabling integration factors that support collaborative integration efforts between healthcare and social services organizations. These factors include shared goals and vision, culture, leadership, team-based care, information sharing and communications, performance measurement and accountability agreements, and dedicated resources and financing. It also identifies factors that act as external influencers that can support or hinder integration efforts among collaborating organizations. These factors are geographic setting, funding models, governance structures, and public policies. These factors are intended to ensure that a realist lens is applied when trying to understand and explain IHSC.Originality/valueThis model is intended to provide a framework to support research, policy and implementation efforts.