Addressing Health Workforce Needs: A Model for Successful Partnerships

Although strategic partnerships are vital to improving health equity in underserved communities, multiple challenges often arise when developing successful partnerships. This article features a proven and practical 5Ps partnership model, which was shown to be effective in the work of the Maryland Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) health workforce programs. This 5Ps model - Probe, Participate, Present, Partner, and Praise - centers around key strategies including trust, shared purpose, and mutual benefits. By following these 5Ps, organizations can develop successful partnerships as described in the case studies on AHEC Scholars, Community Health Workers, and Healing Together Consortium/Certified Peer Recovery Specialists.