Enablers

Physical Space
Sharing physical space or being co-located can be a great enabler for collaboration. It can result in more frequent formal and informal meetings which can lead to better communication and stronger trusting relationships.

Related: Effective Communication
Related: Trusting and Inclusive Relationships

Geography
Geographic factors can also make a difference. Living in a smaller community can offer advantages in public health and primary care collaborations as people may already know one another. This may result in having stronger interpersonal relationships, and having a better understanding of each others’ roles as well as organizational mandates, vision and goals.

Related: Trusting and Inclusive Relationships
Related: Role Clarity
Related: Clear Mandates, Vision and Goals

Funding
With regard to funding, alternative funding plans in primary care, established at the systems level, that provide salaries for staff can be a significant enabler for collaborations. These funding arrangements support collaborations at the organizational level.

Financial Incentives
Salaried staff can be more flexible to participate in meetings to plan for, maintain, and evaluate collaborations. In fee for service payment models, work activities might be more focused more around billable services. Community health centres, which are found across Canada, run using a salaried payment model in primary care.

Related: Systemic Funding Models and Financial Incentives Supporting Collaboration