Transforming Collaborative Care Networks: From Inequity to Inclusion

ObjectiveIn recent years, knowledge about informal care provision as well as sharing care in care networks has increased, but perspectives of carers and care recipients with migration backgrounds continue to be overlooked within public health research. When considering the collaboration between professionals and carers with a migration background, it becomes clear that this collaboration often (re)produces inequality. This study aims to critically understand how intersecting aspects of diversity shape collaboration between professionals and carers in care networks surrounding care recipients with acquired brain injury and a migration background, with a focus on uncovering underlying power dynamics to address existing inequities.MethodsA secondary analysis was conducted based on three empirical studies which explored the perspectives of (a) care recipients, (b) carers with a migration background, and: (c) professionals in care networks separately. An overarching thematic synthesis was performed which brings these perspectives together providing a more holistic understanding of the role diversity plays within care networks.Results and ConclusionThe thematic synthesis unveils inequity within collaborative care networks. This is reflected in a disconnection in collaborative care, where carers are met with Othering and epistemic injustice. It became clear that collaboration in these networks is complex, often reproducing unjust dynamics. We argue that care organizations should adopt an intersectional perspective in policy and practice as well as create communicative spaces for critical reflexivity and ongoing dialogue. This includes a shift towards diversity-responsive care that acknowledges carers as equal partners and confronts structural barriers within collaborative care networks. This also entails a structural and professional commitment to recognizing and valuing diverse knowledge, challenging bias, and fostering truly inclusive communication and decision-making. It may heighten both individual awareness among professionals and structural changes in healthcare systems to dismantle exclusionary norms and foster equitable, inclusive collaboration.