Interventions to improve system-level coproduction in the Cystic Fibrosis Learning Network

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Patient and Family Engagement
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• Coproduction, defined as equal patient-clinician collaboration, is vital for healthcare quality improvement (QI).
• Learning Health Networks (LHNs) integrate coproduction into QI efforts across diverse health systems.
• Patient and Family Partners (PFPs) are essential collaborators in healthcare delivery and improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe interventions for developing and sustaining PFP coproduction in QI.
• To measure PFP coproduction using PFP and program-reported scales.
• To increase PFP involvement in QI while maintaining PFP-clinician relationship satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Co-created interventions with people with CF, caregivers, and clinicians within the Cystic Fibrosis Learning Network (CFLN).
• Interventions focused on readiness, recruitment, onboarding, partnership development, and leadership opportunities.
• Monthly assessments of PFP/program perceptions and PFP QI skills/satisfaction were analyzed using control and run charts.

Main Results:

• The CFLN grew to 34 programs, with 52% having PFPs actively reporting QI participation.
• Clinicians reported PFPs actively participating or leading QI in 76% of programs.
• PFPs showed increased QI skills (17%-32%) and high satisfaction, feeling valued.

Conclusions:

• System-level strategies effectively enhanced coproduction perceptions and PFP engagement in QI for CF programs.
• Adaptable strategies included onboarding, QI training, multi-PFP support, and financial recognition.
• These interventions show promise for fostering coproduction in other health conditions.