Author: Craig G M, Booth H, Hall J, Story A, Hayward A, Goodburn A, Zumla A
Journal: Journal of Advanced Nursing, 2008
Volume/pages: Vol 61(4), pp413-424

About the study
This London-based study aimed to develop and evaluate a social outreach model for adults with tuberculosis. The model included the new role of Tuberculosis Link Worker (TBLW), which was based within the clinical team and was intended to provide enhanced case management and build stronger alliances between hospital and community services. Interviews were carried out with professionals to explore their experience of collaborative working.

Findings
A number of benefits of the new role were reported, both for services and for patients. These included: more effective targeting of resources; effective linkages between the patient, hospital and community services; improved quality of life for patients; and improved understanding by patients of how health and social care services work.

Key messages

• Link worker roles can help ensure that patients’ social needs are recognised and addressed, as well as their clinical needs.
• Interprofessional practice is most successful where there is organisational commitment and support.
• Flexibility, particularly to work across service boundaries, is essential for a link worker role to be effective.