Published version made available here with permission from publisher.Background: Cross-sectoral collaboration across health care settings has the potential to
deliver efficiencies as well as improve health care outcomes. There is a need for better
understanding and awareness of models, mechanisms and strategies that enhance crosssectoral
collaboration in Australia. Improved cross-sectoral collaboration is supported by a
number of changes in workforce, use of technology and improved business systems. This
review seeks to summarise these programs for those who may be seeking to engage in this
area as a means of determining the range of options and possible proven benefits.
Methodology: This study employs a mixed methods approach. A pragmatic literature review
was undertaken to determine the relevant collaborative care models and review current
programs Australia-wide that implement these models. Programs were selected from
searching the grey and indexed medical literature as well as suggestions obtained from
relevant stakeholders. Criteria for inclusion included having description in the peer reviewed
and grey literature, ability to represent a unique model, extent of current use and description of
outcomes of the intervention. Additional qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted
to elucidate more detailed information about technology, workforce and business systems.
This information is summarised in the report and details about the individual programs are
included as an appendix to this report.
Results: Fifteen models were reviewed for this report. Qualitative semi-structured interview
data were employed to supplement findings from the literature review. Key mechanisms of
these models are described specifically focusing on the use of technology, workforce and
business systems. Facilitators and barriers were identified and explored
