# Interprofessional communication - a concept analysis inspired by Schwartz-Barcott and Kim´s hybrid model

## TL;DR

This paper analyzes interprofessional communication in healthcare using a hybrid model to understand its role in patient safety and teamwork.

## Contribution

The study integrates theoretical and empirical approaches to define interprofessional communication in healthcare settings.

## Key findings

- Interprofessional communication involves information sharing, collaboration, and decision-making.
- Factors like trust, clarity, and cultural understanding influence effective communication.
- Leadership and transparency are key facilitators of communication in healthcare teams.

## Abstract

This concept analysis aims to describe and define interprofessional communication within healthcare contexts by synthesising empirical evidence and existing literature.

Utilising Schwartz-Barcott and Kim´s hybrid model, the study integrates theoretical exploration with empirical data analysis.

A comprehensive literature review and dictionary references inform the selection of theoretical frameworks. Data collection involves screening articles from databases including CINAHL, PSYCHINFO, WEB OF SCIENCE, SCOPUS, and PUBMED, resulting in 37 articles for review. Secondary analysis includes observational studies and focus groups conducted in psychiatric outpatient units, integrating theoretical and empirical insights for a nuanced understanding of communication complexities in healthcare settings.

Theoretical exploration reveals the multifaceted nature of interprofessional communication, emphasising information sharing, collaboration, and decision-making. Antecedents, including education, logistical challenges, legal frameworks, and cultural dynamics, are identified. Empirical findings underline the importance of competence, curiosity, trust, cooperation, and clarity in communication. Influential factors such as leadership, cultural understanding, informal communication, transparency, and hierarchy emerge.

The synthesis highlights the central role of communication in healthcare and emphasises its impact on outcomes. Addressing communication barriers and promoting facilitators is important to supportive work environments and patient safety. Further research is necessary to deepen understanding and improve communication effectiveness in health care.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-026-14180-3.