Health System Redesign Using Collective Impact: Implementation of the Behavioural Supports Ontario Initiative in Southwest Ontario

Abstract

This paper describes how the Collective Impact framework facilitated the design, implementation and development of a quality improvement initiative aimed at changing the way healthcare is provided to older adults living with mental health, addictions, neurocognitive and behavioral issues in southwestern Ontario. By promoting a common agenda, shared measurement systems, mutually reinforcing activities, continuous communication and with leadership from a backbone organization, system-wide change occurred. Outcomes, operational/strategic, clinical, capacity enhancement and community support structures as well as challenges are discussed. Improved coordination with primary care will further support enhanced clinical activities and capacity development strategies. Large-scale, multisectoral change is possible when aligned with a collaborative, problem-solving framework that promotes the commitment of many service providers/agencies to a common agenda.

KEYWORDS :

• behavioral issues
• Collective Impact
• system redesign

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to acknowledge the tremendous effort and work being done by many people involved with the Behavioural Supports Ontario program in the South West LHIN, from the committee members to the front-line clinicians. Their courage and dedication to those living with responsive behaviors is truly inspirational.

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The work described in this paper was funded by the South West Local Health Integration Network (LHIN). Although both Simpson K and Girard J work for the South West Local Health Integration Network, neither will receive any benefit or any compensation from the publication of this special report. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.