Improving Home Healthcare Interdisciplinary Team Communication

PURPOSE This Quality Improvement (QI) proof-of-concept project aimed to enhance communication within interdisciplinary healthcare teams (IDTs) in home healthcare settings through the creation and implementation of the .ACT tool (Ask, Context, Timeframe), designed to reduce communication barriers and improve team collaboration. BACKGROUND Fragmented communication in home healthcare leads to inefficiencies in care delivery. The .ACT tool was created to standardize and simplify communication, ensure clarity in task delegation and timelines, improve coordination, and reduce errors. METHODOLOGY A phased implementation strategy followed the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and Iowa Implementation Sustainability Framework (IISF), focusing on staff engagement and leadership support. The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle guided continuous improvement. Implementation steps included: Training: Structured staff education with job aids. Pilot Testing: Integration of the tool into workflows for four weeks. Data Collection: Surveys, EHR analytics, and qualitative feedback. Refinement: Iterative improvements based on feedback. Sustainability: Building awareness and sustainability with the slogan "Got an ask? Use .ACT!” RESULTS Tool adoption increased from 50% to 91.6% in three weeks. A 16.7% reduction in Social Determinants of Health case completion time and an 8.3% improvement in Primary Care Provider case turnaround time were observed. Feedback included: “The .ACT tool makes sending and receiving cases easier and saves time!” “I love this tool! Everyone should use this.” IMPLICATIONS The .ACT tool significantly improved communication and efficiency within the team. Future steps involve securing support for a pilot expansion. KEYWORDS communication tool, interdisciplinary teams, home healthcare, quality improvement, .ACT tool