Connections, Communication and Collaboration in Healthcare’s Complex Adaptive Systems; Comment on “Using Complexity and Network Concepts to Inform Healthcare Knowledge Translation”

Document Type : Commentary

Authors

1 School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia

2 Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

3 Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia

Abstract

A more sophisticated understanding of the unpredictable, disorderly and unstable aspects of healthcare organisations is developing in the knowledge translation (KT) literature. In an article published in this journal, Kitson et al introduced a new model for KT in healthcare based on complexity theory. The Knowledge Translation Complexity Network Model (KTCNM) provides a fresh perspective by making the complexity inherent in complex systems overt. The model encourages a whole system view and focuses on the interdependent relationships between actions, interactions and actors. Taking a systems approach assists our understanding of the connections, communication and collaboration necessary to promote knowledge mobilisation and facilitate the adoption of change. With further development, this could enable the targeting of more effective strategies across the various stakeholders and levels of service, fostering redesign and innovation.

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References

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History

  • Receive Date: 29 September 2017
  • Revise Date: 23 November 2017
  • Accept Date: 25 November 2017
  • First Publish Date: 01 June 2018

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