Review of interprofessional practice models for impact on health service inequities

Review of interprofessional practice models for impact on health service inequities

Objectives
The purpose of this research was to systematically analyse the evidence of impact of Interprofessional Practice Models (IPM) on reducing health service inequities in community care for diverse ageing populations. The review informs best practice models through evidence based findings, informing future proposed Health Care Service policy and practice initiatives in community aged care throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Methods
A systematic review of the literature using quantitative and qualitative research databases and health service reviews was conducted. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and MetaAnalyses (PRISMA) framework was utilised to guide evidence for inclusion in the review. NVIVO software was utilised to code and extract themes from the literature.

Lessons Learned
A diverse range of international interprofessional education models seek to reduce inequities in diverse populations, however there is little evidence of how this translates into interprofessional practice within community settings. It is clear that shared goals and a business practice model that supports an interprofessional approach is necessary to have impact on health service inequities. There is a need to improve collaborative practices between social care providers and health care professionals, and to more clearly define team member roles.

Implications
The implications for Health Service change to achieve national and international health priorities of equity in health care services for diverse ageing populations are significant. The current lack of implementation evidence for best practice makes finding a way forward difficult. This systematic review provides an evidence base for
future policy and management initiatives to inform practice.