A dreamed cooperation: Stakeholder query in Flemish Limburg concerning cooperation in the field of mental healthcare for older people

Abstract

This study is an extensive stakeholder query on cooperation in the field of mental healthcare for older people. Cooperation is a key theme in the current policy on mental healthcare in Flanders which is an application of the socialisation of care. The consultative platform SPIL recruited representatives of the primary healthcare through local consultative platforms (POP) and other relevant actors. This qualitative study used the appreciative inquiry in focus groups. There were 12 focus groups with a total of 110 participants, asked to dream of an ideal cooperation. Results show a great willingness to work together effectively with a central role for the patient. Participants seek knowledge, expertise and practical support from each other. They request a consult feature to know where to turn to. The main premise to cooperation is knowing each other, for which time and space is needed. A joint patient record is another request. No great new projects are requested. Focus must go to further elaboration of working together.