Enablers
Respect and Understanding
Public health and primary care collaborations function well when there is a mutual understanding and respect of varying scopes of practice, as well as, when the two sectors work together on philosophies and perspectives that complement each other. In other words, this flourishes when each sector values the work of the other!
A Willingness to Work Together
A collaborative organizational culture is fostered when there is openness to the needs of the other sector and a willingness to work together to best meet mutual goals. A foundational starting point is having an inherent philosophy in both organizations that promotes collaboration. This is needed in order to support organizational readiness for collaboration which leads to a culture of collaboration.
Additionally, it is very important that both sectors have a clear understanding of the desired outcome(s) of the collaboration and both sectors have something to gain from the collaboration that can be demonstrated formally and informally.
Related: Mandates, Vision, and Goals
What Works!
Listen to an exchange demonstrating a collaborative culture.
Similar Vision
Having leaders with a similar vision of health care and who understand and value each sector are also significant factors that positively influence successful collaboration.
Related: Formal Organizational Leaders as Collaborative Champions
Shared Investment
As well, the investment of time and energy of all players to understand the context and the varying roles and responsibilities is critical to success. This shared expenditure shows a commitment to the collaboration.
Ongoing Consciousness Raising
Raising awareness of the positive effects of a collaboration is an important process in building a collaborative culture. Members benefit by seeing the advantages of the collaboration and are encouraged by celebrating their collaboration’s successes. Showcasing the collaboration is a key enabler to building a collaborative culture.
Policies and Mandates
Finally, systemic level factors, such as policies and mandates can also help influence the development of organizational culture of collaboration, since government can encourage organizations to move out of their silos and to collaborate.
Related: Governmental and Regulatory Policies and Mandates for Collaboration