Abstract
Background: “What is population health management (PHM)?” In recent years, PHM has emerged as a new buzz word to drive system reform but does it add anything to our understanding or is it just integrated care (IC) rejigged? As both concepts continue to gain traction with policy makers and practitioners, the question of similarity and difference has arisen in research and practice. In previous workshops and conferences we discussed these questions with a diverse audience. This workshop continues on that with an invitation to respond to the presented clarification and how this supports the audience in their implementation efforts.
Audience: In this workshop we would like to engage with researchers, community members, practitioners, policy makers and others who have experience with PHM and/or IC.
Approach: Building on the previous discussions, we have planned multiple activities to include the perspectives of a broad audience. Ahead of the conference we have planned a round table with leading experts via the IFIC network to come to consensus on conceptual clarity of IC and PHM. The nominal group technique will be used to ensure everyone can voice their perspective. The outcomes of this round table will be used in a survey that will be shared broadly. Participants have the opportunity to respond to the suggested differences, commonalities, and where both concepts strengthen each other. The outcomes of this process will be presented in the workshop where the audience can engage in the discussion and share experiences. The time will be used according to the following structure:
15’ Introduction to the workshop with 1) an overview of the process so far and 2) the suggested conclusions in terms of the conceptual overlap of PHM and IC and areas where we can draw on specific strengths of one over the other.
40’ Round table discussion in groups of 6-8 people: The main discussion with the audience is whether the overview supports them in their work. Main questions are: Are both concepts now clearer? Can you implement it like this? What would you need in terms of applying IC and PHM in practice? Participants can respond to these questions based on their knowledge and experience.
5’ Summary
Outcomes: Utilizing the momentum for the use of the concepts of IC and PHM, this workshop provides participants with tools to boost the implementation in their own setting. More specifically, the outcomes of this workshop will be used to publish a consensus paper on PHM and IC. Engaging a broad range of perspectives through the conference and the IFIC network enhances the strength of the message. The workshop will also inform further actions that are needed around conceptual clarity to support all people working in different positions in the system to implement integrated care and population health management.