Exploring interorganizational collaboration and knowledge exchange within a research-practice collaborative in the Dutch healthcare sector for people with intellectual disabilities

Collaborative networks in healthcare can facilitate knowledge exchange between academic research and daily practice. However, there is limited understanding of how these networks function and how they effectively support interorganizational research–practice collaboration and knowledge exchange. This study explored (1) the centralization, interconnectedness and reciprocity of organizations within the network of an Academic Collaborative in care for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) concerning collaboration and knowledge exchange, (2) the themes around which organizations collaborate and exchange knowledge, and (3) the perspectives on the current and future network position of organizations in the Academic Collaborative. This study was conducted using two-phase exploratory sequential mixed methods. In phase I, we utilized a network survey to collect data from eight organizations in the Dutch ID-care sector. In phase II, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 representatives of these organizations, reflecting on the quantitative findings with in-depth qualitative data. A descriptive network analysis was conducted on the quantitative data and an inductive thematic analysis was conducted on the qualitative data. Phase I revealed the central role of one organization for connectivity within the network, while other mutual connections between organizations were scarce, indicating limited interorganizational collaboration and knowledge exchange. The main topics of collaboration and knowledge exchange were eHealth and healthy lifestyle. Phase II identified three key themes: (1) relation between organizations, (2) interorganizational collaboration and knowledge exchange, and (3) leverage points for sustainable collaboration. Active engagement in collaboration and knowledge exchange of all organizations is appreciated, with a desire for more interaction, closer interpersonal connections, and familiarity with the Academic Collaborative, participating organizations, and network goals. Regular evaluation of network objectives is essential. Collaborating and exchanging on shared themes that match the organization’s wishes allows the Academic Collaborative to be more inclusive of knowledge needs in everyday practice. The academic institution’s coordinating role is a prerequisite, but challenging for optimizing collaboration and knowledge exchange. An Academic Collaborative can bridge the knowledge gap between health research and practice. This study’s network perspective provided insights into interorganizational collaboration and knowledge exchange, highlighting leverage points to shape future collaborative networks and enhance network performance. Further research is needed to support ongoing development.