Table 2 Policy imperatives for advancing team-based primary health care

Policy imperative #1: To align health system goals, policies, workforce and structures

The lack of system alignment between the ministries of health, regional health authorities and private practices’ priorities and agendas impedes team-based care. To align health system goals, policies, workforce and structures requires a shared vision on team-based care, resource sharing and inclusion of the broader community in policy deliberation and implementation. We urge leaders to stay the course for team-based primary health care as it is foundational to health care reform in Canada.

Policy imperative #2: To invest adequate resources to support system change structures

Provinces need to invest adequate resources to support system change to foster team-based primary health care. This requires that provinces provide sustainable funding for team-based care and invest in proper infrastructure, adequate technology and change management plans. Improved evidence is required to guide decisions on resource assignment.

Policy imperative #3: To develop appropriate and sustainable compensation models

Existing compensation models can negatively impact team-based service delivery. The third policy imperative is therefore to develop appropriate and sustainable compensation models. This imperative is not directed solely at physician remuneration; we need to consider compensation models for a wider range of team members including those in the community.

Policy imperative #4: To integrate collaborative practice metrics in primary health care monitoring and evaluation structures

The fourth policy imperative, integrate collaborative practice metrics in primary health care monitoring and evaluation, will improve accountability for team-based service provision. Investments need to be made in shared data elements and indicators so we can learn from successes and failures, target our investments and disinvest in initiatives that do not yield the desired outcomes.