A Study of Role Expectations and Satisfaction With the Healthcare Coach Role

The research objective was to determine the expectations of and satisfaction with the healthcare coach (HCC) role among hospitalists and staff RNs, as well as expectations of case managers who collaborate with them.

Care transitions occur when patients move from 1 care setting or provider to another. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services developed the Community-Based Care Transitions Program to address readmission, patient safety, improved quality of care, and cost savings.

A cross-sectional study measured level of satisfaction and explored qualitatively the expectations regarding the HCC role among hospitalists and staffs RNs. Case managers were surveyed regarding expectations of the HCC role. The HCCs were surveyed regarding their new role experiences.

On a Likert scale of 1 to 5, satisfaction with the HCC role by staff nurses averaged 3 (neutral), whereas hospitalists' mean satisfaction was 4 (satisfied). From the qualitative data, 6 themes emerged among participants: personal qualities, care navigation, system perspective, collaboration/teamwork, challenges/role confusion, and future role benefits. Two additional themes were identified by the HCCs: new knowledge and helpful skill sets.

We recommend further evaluation of the HCC role in other organizations and across care settings.