Multidisciplinary integrated Parent and Child Centres in Amsterdam: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Management
• Child Development Services

Background:

• Integrated service delivery models for parent and child care are emerging globally.
• Parent and Child Centres (PCCs) in the Netherlands utilize multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive care.
• Limited research exists on the implementation of these integrated service centres.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation of Parent and Child Centres (PCCs) in the Netherlands.
• To identify perceived advantages and challenges in the multidisciplinary service delivery model of PCCs.
• To provide recommendations for improving the organization and management of PCCs.

Main Methods:

• A SWOT analysis was conducted using triangulated data from published documents and interviews.
• Structured interviews were held with 91 PCC professionals and experts in Amsterdam.
• Qualitative thematic analysis was applied to interview data, guided by a pre-set code list.

Main Results:

• Perceived benefits include enhanced care continuity, improved communication, and accessible professional contact.
• Identified challenges involve a lack of uniform guidelines, communication delays with external facilities, and inadequate infrastructure.
• Potential issues include role ambiguity for PCC managers and the risk of prioritizing professional needs over client needs.

Conclusions:

• PCCs represent a promising approach to integrated service provision for parents and children.
• Significant improvements are needed at managerial and organizational levels to address identified challenges.
• Further quantitative research is recommended to assess impacts on quality of care and child health outcomes.