1.7: Why Use a Collaborative Approach?
Collaboration and self-management
This module has highlighted the benefits of self-management and collaborative approaches to improve health outcomes for patients with a chronic mental health condition. The combined impact of a collaborative self-management methodology generates many benefits to the psychiatrist, patient and carer as detailed in the table.
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Psychiatrist |
Patient |
Carer |
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The workload and responsibility is shared among a number of able individuals. The psychiatrist is an important member of the care team but not the only member. Family members are an invaluable support in the self-management of a mental disorder(1) and can assist the psychiatrist by:
A collaborative approach, where a patient is involved in open discussions and decision-making, generally means a happier and more trusting patient. It has been shown that there is a relationship between trust and increased satisfaction, adherence to treatment and continuity of care.(2) It creates a more realistic plan of action which is inclusive of all concerned. The roles and responsibilities of each individual are identified. Fewer crises. |
Becomes more empowered and feels valued with greater control of meeting future goals and aspirations. Actively involved in the treatment of their illness and recognises that their role is just as important as doctors and other carers.(4) Is more knowledgeable, with a greater understanding of the condition. Has a self-management care plan to follow. The plan can also go with the patient and be used in conjunction with other health professionals. Improved skills to meet the challenges of chronic condition self-management, such as the quality of decisions made. Record and monitor their symptoms and take appropriate action to cope with changes.(4) Improved adherence to medication. Reduced hospitalisation. Fewer crises. Gains belief that change and improvement can occur. Experiences improvement in physical and emotional outcomes, through better management. Can display increased energy and reduced fatigue. |
The carer is incorporated into the plan and feels to be making a contribution. It helps to clarify the role between the patient and the carer. Mental illness creates many conflict problems which can be sorted out for the benefit both of the consumer and the carer. More knowledgeable with a greater understanding of the condition and how to best support the patient. Fewer crises. The carer (and the patient) enjoys a better quality of life. Optimal management of challenging behaviours. |
The collaborative experience
This interactive graphic allows reflection on different consultation styles as experienced by patients and carers. Select a psychiatrist door and listen to comments on the consultation style, outcomes from the session, the patient’s feeling after this session, the carer’s feeling after this session and the potential long-term outcomes if the sessions continue in this manner.
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Reflective exercise
Reflect on the four consultation styles experienced by the patient and carer. Identify good collaborative practices and jot down your answers.
References
- Chovil N. How families can help in self-management of a mental disorder. Visions: BC's Mental Health Journal 2003;18(Summer):7-8.
- McKinstry B, Ashcroft RE, Car J, Freeman GK, Sheikh A. Interventions for improving patients' trust in doctors and groups of doctors. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006;3:CD004134.
- Glasgow NJ, Jeon YH, Kraus SG, Pearce-Brown CL. Chronic disease self-management support: the way forward for Australia. Med J Aust 2008;189(10 Suppl):S14-16.
- Flinders Human Behaviour & Health Research Unit. Flinders Program - The Partners in Health Handbook. Flinders University, Adelaide, 2008.
