Abstract
In this article we explore the challenges inherent in developing effective interorganizational relationships in the context of supporting the integration of health and social care in Scotland. We begin by outlining the context of health and social care integration and the nature of the program. We then describe the theories that underpinned our approach and outline in detail how the approach worked in practice in one area. We go on to discuss our reflections on six practices participants found helpful in creating the conditions necessary for effective collaboration. Finally, we end by reflecting on our learning.
Highlights
Health and social care integration has been underway across Scotland for the past 3 years.It involves a wide range of large and small, public sector and voluntary organizations working together in ways which are completely new for them and throws up a wide range of interorganizational dynamics.The authors are partners in a small business (Animate) specializing in supporting interorganizational and intraorganizational work
We start by exploring the context, describe our overall approach, focusing in detail on how we worked in one area as illustrative of our practice across the whole
The program was managed by leadership development practitioners or project managers from the three national agencies, to whom we reported regularly in action research meetings, facilitated by a
Summary
Health and social care integration has been underway across Scotland for the past 3 years. It involves a wide range of large and small, public sector and voluntary organizations working together in ways which are completely new for them and throws up a wide range of interorganizational dynamics. In this article we have chosen to focus on a large contract supporting health and social care integration across Scotland. We clarify our learning about six practices, which we have found to be at the heart of developing the kind of interorganizational relationships which enable organizations to truly collaborate. We know that collaborating is not easy; by exploring the learning from our own practice, we hope to support other collaborations to achieve their potential more
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