Quantitative, Qualitative, Comparative, and Historical Methodologies Commons^™

The Phenomenon Of Collaboration: A Phenomenologic Study Of Collaboration Between Family Medicine And Obstetrics And Gynecology Departments At An Academic Medical Center, David Brown, Cheryl Brewster, Marina Karides, Lou Lukas

David C. Brown

Collaboration is essential to manage complex real world problems. We used phenomenologic methods to elaborate a description of collaboration between two departments at an academic medical center who considered their relationship to represent a model of effective collaboration. Key collaborative structures included a shared vision and commitment by leaders, rigorous quality improvement, clear delineation of roles with built-in flexibility, ongoing commitment to formal and informal communication channels and conflict resolution, relationship development grounded in respect and responsiveness, and shared training in a supportive learning environment with legitimate participation fostering skill development. This study reveals the complexity and resources required for …