A Balancing Act: Partnership Dynamics in Practice When Organising and Developing Integrated Care Initiatives
International Journal of Integrated Care, vol. 26, pp. 5
Abstract
Introduction: Integrated care for families provides tailored, coordinated support across various life domains. It relies on partnerships between families, professionals, organisations, and policymakers, navigating diverse perspectives, cultures, and structures. These differences make partnerships complex and not a given. While much is known about partnerships, the dynamics between stakeholders in practice remains underexplored. Therefore, this study examines the dynamics of partnerships in the organisation and development of integrated care initiatives, identifying important aspects, facilitators and barriers. Method: This qualitative study explored partnership by following five integrated care teams over two years, through interviews (n = 54), observations of clinical case discussions (n = 40) and four learning sessions, incorporating perspectives of families, professionals, managers and local policymakers on partnership. Results: Four aspects of partnership were identified: shared vision among stakeholders; roles and responsibilities; monitoring and evaluation; and funding. Facilitators included inclusive participation, transparent communication, and flexible approaches. Barriers were conflicting interests, undefined roles and leadership, and fragmented systems that may hinder collaboration. Conclusion/Discussion: Balancing relational and organisational aspects of integrated care is complex yet essential to provide person-centred care. Continuous stakeholder involvement, along with evaluation and reflection, is crucial for fostering shared learning and ensuring the development and sustainability of partnerships within these initiatives.
Authors 5
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Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
LUMC Curium - Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Post Box 15, 2300 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
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Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
LUMC Curium - Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Post Box 15, 2300 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
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Anne Marie Barnhoorn-Bos Aachen GGZ Rivierduinen Children and Youth Institute for Mental Health Care LUMC Curium - Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Leiden University Medical Center · GGZ Rivierduinen
Affiliation as printed
GGZ Rivierduinen Children and Youth, Institute for Mental Health Care, Postbox 405, 2300 AK Leiden, The Netherlands
LUMC Curium - Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Post Box 15, 2300 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
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Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
LUMC Curium - Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Post Box 15, 2300 AA Leiden, The Netherlands
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Amsterdam University Medical Centers · University of Amsterdam
Affiliation as printed
Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam UMC, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Research Institute Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 127, 1018 WS Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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