Implementing an adapted Buurtzorg model in an inner city NHS trust

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Workforce Development
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Inner-city district nursing faces significant challenges in workforce retention and job satisfaction.
• Existing models may not adequately address the unique demands of these environments.
• The Dutch Buurtzorg model presents an alternative approach focused on self-managing teams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation of the Dutch Buurtzorg model in an NHS setting in London.
• To explore the potential of self-managing teams to enhance nurse satisfaction and workforce sustainability.
• To provide practical insights for nurse leaders considering similar organizational changes.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative reflection by nurse leaders on a 'test and learn' pilot implementation.
• Analysis of experiences during initial piloting and subsequent scaling up.
• Examination of governance, assurance, and change management pragmatism.

Main Results:

• The implementation provided valuable lessons in adapting the Buurtzorg model to the NHS.
• Insights were gained into the practicalities of governance and supporting change processes.
• The model demonstrated potential for improving nurse experience and team functioning.

Conclusions:

• The Buurtzorg model offers a viable framework for addressing challenges in inner-city district nursing.
• Successful implementation requires attention to pragmatic support and adaptive governance.
• Nurse leaders can utilize these reflections to guide the adoption and sustainability of self-managing team models.