2.4.a Interprofessional Communication

Effective interprofessional communication was an essential element in ensuring that Geeta's transfer was safe and the coordination of care was successful. Mee and Alang felt security in their choice to go home because the interprofessional team had discussed their plan, in case they needed to return later for care. Both of these cases demonstrate the importance of the team’s communication when providing person-centered care.

Effective team communication is based on relationships. Trusting, respectful relationships are built by getting to know the people you are working with. Teams should strive to find and identify a common goal to work towards together. Open communication can be facilitated when there is symmetry of power between the people conversing.

Active listening and being observant and respectful of non-verbal as well as verbal communications is different in a group, since there are more people involved in the discussion and each person needs to be able to contribute to the conversation. It is still important to use language understood by all involved, and explain any discipline-specific terminology. It helps to continuously evaluate your effectiveness of communication, and the reception of your colleagues, and modifying accordingly.