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Research ArticleResearch

Moving from space to place

Reimagining the challenges of physical space in primary health care teams in Ontario

Bridget L. Ryan, Judith Belle Brown and Cathy Thorpe
Canadian Family Physician September 2019; 65 (9) e405-e410;
Bridget L. Ryan
Assistant Professor in the Centre for Studies in Family Medicine, the Department of Family Medicine, and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at Western University in London, Ont.
MSc PhD
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  • For correspondence: bryan@uwo.ca
Judith Belle Brown
Professor and Chair of the master of clinical science and doctoral programs in the Centre for Studies in Family Medicine in the Department of Family Medicine at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at Western University, and, at the time of this study, was Professor in the School of Social Work at King’s University College in London.
MSW PhD
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Cathy Thorpe
Research Associate and Senior Manager in the Centre for Studies in Family Medicine at Western University.
MA
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Abstract

Objective To extend our understanding of how primary health care team members characterize the effects of location on team functioning.

Design Qualitative study using grounded theory methodology, with in-depth analysis of data concerning the role of physical space in teamwork.

Setting Family health teams in Ontario.

Participants A total of 110 team members from 20 family health teams in Ontario.

Methods Individual semistructured interviews were conducted. Interviews were audiorecorded and transcribed verbatim. Individual and group coding followed grounded theory processes of open, axial, and selective coding. Immersion in interview and field note data facilitated crystallization.

Main findings Across sites, regardless of their physical space, team members commented spontaneously about the role of space in team functioning. An overarching theme of a “sense of place” developed from data analysis. A sense of place could be established through co-location (being in the same physical space), the allocation of team members’ working spaces, coming together, and having a shared vision. Physical space often operated as a key facilitator or considerable barrier to creating a sense of place; however, some teams with suboptimal physical space functioned as highly integrated teams, creating a sense of place through various means.

Conclusion Many interprofessional health care teams cannot physically change less-than-optimal spaces. However, teams can thrive and create a sense of place through various means, some of which relate to actual physical space, and some of which relate to promoting common activities and a shared vision—factors that are effective for team building in general. When there are economic limitations, as well as structural constraints, then it is essential that creating a sense of place be a priority. Future research should consider this lens as a means for expanding the discussion and possible solutions around traditional space issues.

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Canadian Family Physician: 65 (9)
Canadian Family Physician
Vol. 65, Issue 9
1 Sep 2019
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Moving from space to place
Bridget L. Ryan, Judith Belle Brown, Cathy Thorpe
Canadian Family Physician Sep 2019, 65 (9) e405-e410;

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Bridget L. Ryan, Judith Belle Brown, Cathy Thorpe
Canadian Family Physician Sep 2019, 65 (9) e405-e410;
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