Creating high performing primary health care teams in Alberta, Canada: Mapping out the key issues using a socioecological model

BackgroundAlberta's Primary Care Networks, introduced in 2003, use a team-based approach to meet the mandate to improve timely access to primary health care services. Yet, not much is known about the factors that influence how teams work in PCNs.Methods and ResultsWe conducted individual and group interviews with 14 Primary Care Network teams, physicians, managers, and other staff to understand these factors. Using a socioecological model we found that the most salient issues for the interprofessional teams at the external level was physician remuneration. Organizationally the main issues were co-location, the need for an interoperable electronic health record, visionary leadership and educational supports. At the team level, accountability, relationships and communication were valued.ConclusionsUsing the socioecological model allowed us to understand the critical issues that influence team functioning within Alberta. We suggest that the model be used to design interventions that are relevant and feasible to all the stakeholders including front line providers.