Article Text
Abstract
Background In the evolving landscape of healthcare, optimising collaborative environments is imperative (Gittell, Godfrey, Thistlethwaite. J Interprof Care. 2013;27(3):210–3) whilst there is also a clear potential for digital solutions to make an enormous impact into long-standing issues within healthcare systems (Butcher, Hussain. Future Healthc J. 2022;9(2), 113–117). We present the transformative journey of our inpatient unit [IPU], where we dismantled physical barriers, making way for a fusion of physical and digital innovations to enhance patient care.
Aim Our aim was to address the challenges in interdisciplinary collaboration by restructuring the IPU, integrating physical and digital solutions to enhance teamwork, communication, and patient care delivery, thereby fostering a cohesive and efficient working environment for the multidisciplinary team.
Method Our methodological approach ensured we conducted comprehensive research, engaged stakeholders, and meticulously designed the unified MDT office. Structural assessments guided renovations, while equipment procurement aligned with staff needs. A collaborative approach ensured ownership and inclusivity throughout the transformation process (Mayo, Woolley. AMA J Ethics. 2016;18(9):933–40).
Results The impact of our transformation was profound. Enhancements were observed in staff satisfaction, which surged 78%, MDT communication improved 85%, while collaboration flourished. The unified MDT office bolstered patient care continuity and treatment planning supported by the digital handover system which streamlined workflows, earning high praise 85.8% and aiding task completion up to 92.9%.
Conclusion The transformation of our hospice’s inpatient unit workspace has yielded significant improvements in MDT collaboration, communication, and overall patient care. By breaking down the physical barriers and creating a unified MDT office, we have successfully addressed the longstanding challenges associated with fragmented working environments. The introduction of a digital handover system, alongside upgraded equipment and modern amenities, has not only streamlined workflows but also enhanced the reliability and accuracy of data being produced. This has led to improved communication practices, fostering better continuity in patient care and treatment planning.