Can interprofessional collaboration provide health human resources solutions? A knowledge synthesis

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Healthcare Workforce Studies
• Interprofessional Education and Practice

Background:

• Limited research exists on the impact of interprofessional (IP) interventions on health human resource (HHR) outcomes.
• Existing studies often focus on practice and education outcomes, overlooking workforce implications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize the literature on the effects of IP interventions on HHR outcomes.
• To examine impacts on workplace quality, staff satisfaction, recruitment, retention, turnover, employment choice, and cost-effectiveness.
• To identify gaps in current knowledge regarding IP interventions and HHR.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review was conducted.
• Included 41 peer-reviewed articles and 5 IECPCP project reports.
• Focused on pre- and post-licensure IP interventions.

Main Results:

• Post-licensure IP interventions enhanced provider satisfaction and workplace quality.
• IP learning in rural or less popular specialties attracted more students, potentially increasing employment.
• Strong evidence indicates post-licensure IP interventions reduced patient care costs.

Conclusions:

• IP interventions positively influence staff satisfaction, workplace quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Further high-quality studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of IP interventions for recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals.
• Gaps remain in understanding long-term effects on staff retention and cost determination.