Patient involvement in interprofessional collaboration, a catalyst to the delivery of patient-centered care at community-based mental health settings

Abstract

Rationale: The purpose of this study was to examine the patient-lived experience and their role with interprofessional teams. Methods: This case study used a mixed method approach that was focused on the views of patients with mental illness (12) and healthcare and social care professionals (11) at a mental health unit in a Canadian community hospital. Data collection included contextual observations of interprofessional team meetings, a questionnaire completed by professionals, and individual interviews with professionals and patients. Results: Shortage of social workers, low interprofessional team diversity, and a lack of patient education created negative patient experiences and delays in patient discharge plans. Improving patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans were associated with developing patient decision-support aids and including a diverse group of professionals and community partners. Conclusions: Shared decision-making is a fundamental component of patient-centered care, and encourages patients to take responsibility of their own mental health needs.