Turkey’s National Interprofessional Collaboration Strategy
22 April 2025
13.00 (UTC) / 15.00 (CET) / 16.00 (Ankara)
Presenters:
Giray Kolcu, Süleyman Demirel University Faculty of Medicine
Moderator:
Jan-Jaap Reinders, Interprofessional.Global
Abstract: Interprofessional collaboration has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery as it enhances the effectiveness of patient care and contributes to the sustainability of the healthcare system. In Turkey, there is growing awareness of this field, and various strategic steps have been taken. The Ministry of Health and Council of Higher Education play a critical role in strengthening interprofessional collaboration. The Ministry of Health can encourage a multidisciplinary approach to the development of health policies, create directives to support a team-based work culture, and organize continuous professional development programs. The Council of Higher Education can promote the creation of interprofessional collaboration-focused curricula in faculties and colleges, and support academic studies and research projects. Effective learning of interprofessional collaboration requires the development of interprofessional education programs that bring together professionals from different health disciplines. Universities and research centers can increase the competencies of healthcare professionals to work collaboratively with different professions by adding interdisciplinary courses to their curricula. Other stakeholders such as professional chambers, hospitals, the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and international organizations also play important roles in promoting interprofessional collaboration. A two-stakeholder model is proposed for the development, strengthening, and sustainability of interprofessional collaboration in healthcare services, with the Ministry of Health and Council of Higher Education as the main actors. Transformational leadership plays a critical role in strengthening interprofessional collaboration, increasing interdisciplinary synergy, and promoting patient-centered care. The coordinated work of key stakeholders ensures the creation of a harmonious system at all stages, from education to practice.
