Recommendations for NP/Physician Collaborative Relationships in Long-Term Care Homes.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Healthcare Management
• Interprofessional Education

Background:

• Long-term care (LTC) residents present complex medical and psychosocial needs.
• Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physicians have complementary skills essential for optimal resident care.
• Recruitment and retention of primary care providers, including NPs and physicians, in the LTC sector face significant challenges, hindering collaborative relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide evidence-based considerations for establishing effective collaborative relationships between NPs and physicians in LTC settings.
• To address challenges in NP and physician recruitment and retention within the LTC sector.
• To enhance the quality of care for LTC residents through improved interprofessional collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Literature reviews (2)
• Interviews with experienced NPs and physicians in LTC
• Stakeholder workshop

Main Results:

• Recommendations are categorized into 5 key areas: clear expectations, communication best practices, psychological safety, relationship maintenance, and educational support.
• Identified implications for practice, policy, and research, including LTC management support and resources for complex resident care.
• Highlighted the need for continuing education tailored to the LTC environment.

Conclusions:

• Effective collaborative relationships between NPs and physicians are essential to meet the current and future care needs of LTC residents.
• Implementing these evidence-based recommendations can improve NP/physician collaboration and their work environment.
• These strategies are expected to aid in the retention of NPs and physicians in LTC homes.