Evaluation of a micro-team model at McMaster Family Practice

In January 2024, McMaster Family Practice launched an innovative team model to improve efficiency and team support. The micro-team model was planned and designed with input from clinicians and staff over the preceding six months. It introduced smaller teams, consisting of 3 physicians, 1 NP/PA and 1 RPN per team, and provides enhanced support for each team through dedicated administrative personnel. The Primary Care Research Collaborative (PCRC) is supporting the evaluation of the new model.
The evaluation began in the early stages of implementation so the findings could be incorporated in real time when possible. The improvement-oriented formative evaluation examined whether the model was meeting its objectives from the perspectives of those most involved in the initiative: leadership, clinicians, and staff.
We employed an explanatory mixed methods approach based in the Theoretical Domains Framework, where quantitative data collection (survey) was followed by qualitative measures (focus groups). The survey achieved a 77% response rate, with 10 minutes allotted within an all-staff meeting for its completion. Insights from this survey informed the development of focus group guides used to facilitate deeper discussions. Thirty-one people participated in the focus groups. Focus groups were conducted with distinct professional cohorts to enhance participant comfort in sharing their perspectives and to capture a comprehensive view of the impact of the micro-teams.
We reported the survey results to all professional groups at McMaster Family Practice and are currently in the process of reporting the results from the focus groups. Clinic personnel are using the findings to continuously refine and improve clinic processes.
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