Developing a high-performing health-care system through assessment of public health alliances

Significance: Collaboration between urban public hospitals and local health departments can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of local health systems. Background: With the intention of strengthening the local health system and improving health outcomes SAMHD and UHS formed a joint council to identify opportunities for greater collaboration. An evaluation of model health collaborations was undertaken to provide information for this process. Methods: Jurisdictions with strong associations between urban public hospitals and local health departments were identified. A subset of eight partnerships were evaluated through document reviews and interviews with key informants. Models were assessed for compatibility with the local health-care system and the degree of organizational alignment by using the Strategic Alliance Formative Assessment Rubric. Results: Each health-care system reviewed had unique organizational features; however, interpersonal communication, alignment of public health and health-care strategies, and data sharing across components of the systems were critical to supporting collaboration. Additional findings demonstrate that collaborative organizational models can enhance the role of prevention across public health and hospital functions. Implications: Analysis of the collaborative efforts of local jurisdictions can provide information for health-care systems in developing strategic alliances and improving health outcomes.