As practitioners dedicated to the well-being of children, we constantly seek innovative ways to improve our skills and provide the best care possible. The recent research article titled International Interprofessional Collaborative Office Rounds (iiCOR): Addressing Children's Developmental, Behavioral, and Emotional Health Using Distance Technology offers valuable insights into an effective model for professional development and interprofessional collaboration.
iiCOR is a distance-learning program designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of child health professionals worldwide by leveraging interprofessional collaboration. This model has shown promising results in improving the care of children with developmental, behavioral, and emotional (DBE) disorders. Here’s how you can implement the outcomes of this research to enhance your practice:
Key Takeaways from iiCOR
- Interprofessional Collaboration: The iiCOR model emphasizes the importance of a non-hierarchical, peer-mentoring approach. By participating in regular, case-based discussions with professionals from various disciplines, you can gain diverse perspectives and solutions to complex cases.
- Case-Based Learning: The program involves monthly discussions of actual cases from participants' practices. This method not only enhances diagnostic and management skills but also encourages reflection on the interpersonal aspects of care.
- Global Perspective: iiCOR includes participants from high-, middle-, and low-income countries, providing a rich cultural exchange and diverse approaches to care. Understanding these variations can help you adapt your practice to better meet the needs of children from different backgrounds.
- Complex Case Management: The cases discussed in iiCOR are highly complex, often involving multiple themes such as family dynamics, psychiatric co-morbidities, and cultural differences. Learning to navigate these complexities can significantly improve your clinical decision-making.
- Continued Education: Participants reported high satisfaction with the program, noting that it met their continuing educational needs and provided valuable insights into managing DBE disorders.
Implementing iiCOR in Your Practice
To incorporate the benefits of iiCOR into your practice, consider the following steps:
- Form an Interprofessional Team: Assemble a team of professionals from various disciplines, including pediatrics, psychiatry, psychology, and social work. Regular meetings will foster a collaborative environment.
- Utilize Distance Technology: Use video conferencing tools to conduct regular case-based discussions. Ensure that all team members have access to the necessary hardware and software.
- Focus on Complex Cases: Select cases that present multiple challenges and require input from various disciplines. This will provide a comprehensive learning experience for all participants.
- Encourage Reflective Practice: Create a safe, non-hierarchical space for team members to discuss their experiences, challenges, and emotional responses to cases. This can help reduce burnout and improve job satisfaction.
- Evaluate and Adapt: Regularly assess the effectiveness of your collaborative rounds and make adjustments as needed. Solicit feedback from team members to ensure the program meets their needs.
Conclusion
The iiCOR model offers a powerful framework for improving the skills and knowledge of child health professionals. By fostering interprofessional collaboration and leveraging distance technology, you can enhance your practice and provide better care for children with DBE disorders. Embrace this model to create a more effective and supportive professional environment.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: International Interprofessional Collaborative Office Rounds (iiCOR): Addressing Children's Developmental, Behavioral, and Emotional Health Using Distance Technology.
