Measuring Local Public Health and Primary Care Collaboration: A Practice-Based Research Approach

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Collaboration between public health and primary care is crucial for population health.
• Existing collaboration levels and facilitators/barriers are not well understood at the local level.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the extent of public health and primary care collaboration at the local level.
• To develop a model framework for collaboration: the Community Collaboration Health Model (CCHM).

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach utilizing cross-sectional surveys and semistructured key informant interviews.
• Surveys administered to local health directors and primary care leaders across four states.
• Interviews conducted with paired local health directors and primary care leaders.

Main Results:

• Significant variation exists in collaboration characteristics across local jurisdictions.
• 37% of jurisdictions demonstrated strong foundational and energizing collaboration characteristics.
• While foundational elements were often present, factors promoting sustainability and innovation were less frequently reported.

Conclusions:

• Despite valuing collaboration, actual practice is limited, highlighting the need for shared priorities and tangible benefits.
• The Community Collaboration Health Model (CCHM) and technical assistance can support collaboration advancement.
• Dedicated funding, reimbursement reform, and improved data systems are vital, but leaders can also take steps to build relationships.