Learning together, working together

The Clinical Connect Online Programme is designed for primary health practitioners within Aotearoa New Zealand who are working as a general practitioner, nurse practitioner, nurse or community pharmacist. The model is based on best practice principles of adult learning – providing time and space for reflection, discussion and considering how new knowledge relates to their own practice.

Dr Neil Whittaker (GP), Paula Finnigan (nurse) and Megan Peters (pharmacist prescriber) of the Golden Bay Medical Centre joined the online programme mid-2024.

Dr Whittaker says, “The programme ticked many boxes for how we learn best, with its pedagogical structure, evidence-based content and focus on the practical realities of primary care. It is developed by primary care for primary care. It differs from traditional professional development, which often follows a lecture-style format led by external specialists.”

For the Golden Bay team, the Clinical Connect Online Frailty topic sparked improvements particularly in the management of frailty in their patients. Their experience highlights how this topic encouraged an environment of collaboration, reflection and change.

The team adjusted their approach to managing frailty, with Dr Whittaker noting, “We are so busy just trying to get through the work, which often meant focusing more on the patientsʼ immediate, urgent needs rather than long-term planning.”

This topic inspired them to develop a clear, coordinated frailty pathway as a crucial step toward improving care for this patient group, with additional funding helping to support its implementation.

As Megan notes, “Having a multidisciplinary approach within the programme encourages the sharing of knowledge, experiences, and discussions around the focus topic. This not only strengthens team relationships but also enhances clinical support, all with the goal of improving patient outcomes."

Although the new frailty pathway is still in its initial stages, the team has already seen positive changes in patient care. They now take a more holistic approach to frailty management, addressing not just immediate needs but also long term care planning. This ensures that patients receive care that respects their wishes and leads to the best possible outcomes. This shift has been particularly evident in end-of-life care, where there has been a concerted effort to avoid unnecessary and futile treatments to ensure patients’ dignity and comfort.

The multidisciplinary aspect of the Clinical Connect Online Programme was key to enabling these changes. With a varied group of clinicians attending the programme, they were able to approach challenges from different angles, ensuring that all aspects of patient care were considered. This collaborative approach encouraged comprehensive decision making, which considered a wide range of factors, from medical to emotional and practical needs.

Paula said, “It’s been amazing to see how bringing the multiple inputs for patients together is reducing the need for clinicians to address needs individually. So, the collaborationʼs been great.”

Furthermore, the programme encouraged the Golden Bay team to reflect on their practice, challenging traditional ways of thinking. This reflection allowed them to identify areas for improvement that might have otherwise been overlooked. This holistic and reflective approach has not only enhanced the care they provide but has also created an environment of continuous learning and development within the team.

While the journey is still ongoing for this team, the Clinical Connect Online Programme has shown that by giving primary care professionals the tools, time, and space to collaborate and reflect, positive change is possible. This approach has led to improved patient outcomes and a more cohesive and effective approach to care.