Is Public Health Ready for a Professional Practice Framework?

Abstract

To develop a framework for professional practice for a large urban public health unit in Canada. The project involved a literature search, key informant interviews, an environmental scan and focus groups. Analysis and synthesis led to recommendations for the development of discipline-specific Professional Practice Leaders (PPL) and an Interprofessional Practice Leaders Network. The latter meets to discuss cross-cutting practice issues and is chaired by the chief executive officer of the health unit, the Medical Officer of Health. The one-year evaluation has demonstrated that this initiative has worked well in practice. It is a flexible framework which provides new leadership opportunities and gives staff valuable input into decision-making on practice issues. It is also a more efficient use of staff resources, including a comprehensive approach to solving problems and in breaking down silos between programs. Communication and collaboration between disciplines has increased. The initiative was evaluated successfully after the pilot year. In going forward areas to review include the time allotment for the PPL, communication between the PPL, the respective Program Director and the entire department, and expanding professional development opportunities for the PPL.