Experiences from a learning collaborative in primary care

A Focus group study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the experience of participants in a learning collaborative. The study has a qualitative design using focusgroupdiscussion as a data collection method. Qualitative content analysis was applied for analysis. Results: 
1.Learning together, from and about each other, provides a common experience and a platform for competence development. 2.Coaching is a contributing factor for systematic implementation.
3.Leadership support is perceived as a prerequisite for implementing competence interventions.

The learning collaboratives have developed the competence of the participants through networking and sharing knowledge and experiences. Leadership support is important. Line managers have a key role in setting aside time and resources to facilitate. However, leaders seem to be trapped in a severe prioritizing dilemma between demands and resources available, and the participants need for leadership support and facilitation. Managers need both room and competence to exercise an empowering management that safeguards the staffs autonomy. Further studies of the importance of leadership regarding learning collaboratives and competence development seem necessary.