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. 2021 May 3;19(1):61.
doi: 10.1186/s12960-021-00605-z.

Conceptual framework for task shifting and task sharing: an international Delphi study

Aaron M Orkin  1   2   3 , Sampreeth Rao  4 , Jeyasakthi Venugopal  5 , Natasha Kithulegoda  6   7 , Pete Wegier  8 , Stephen D Ritchie  9 , David VanderBurgh  10 , Alexandra Martiniuk  6   11   12 , Fabio Salamanca-Buentello  13 , Ross Upshur  6
Affiliations

Conceptual framework for task shifting and task sharing: an international Delphi study

Aaron M Orkin et al. Hum Resour Health. .

Abstract

Background: Task shifting and sharing (TS/S) involves the redistribution of health tasks within workforces and communities. Conceptual frameworks lay out the key factors, constructs, and variables involved in a given phenomenon, as well as the relationships between those factors. Though TS/S is a leading strategy to address health worker shortages and improve access to services worldwide, a conceptual framework for this approach is lacking.

Methods: We used an online Delphi process to engage an international panel of scholars with experience in knowledge synthesis concerning TS/S and develop a conceptual framework for TS/S. We invited 55 prospective panelists to participate in a series of questionnaires exploring the purpose of TS/S and the characteristics of contexts amenable to TS/S programmes. Panelist responses were analysed and integrated through an iterative process to achieve consensus on the elements included in the conceptual framework.

Results: The panel achieved consensus concerning the included concepts after three Delphi rounds among 15 panelists. The COATS Framework (Concepts and Opportunities to Advance Task Shifting and Task Sharing) offers a refined definition of TS/S and a general purpose statement to guide TS/S programmes. COATS describes that opportunities for health system improvement arising from TS/S programmes depending on the implementation context, and enumerates eight necessary conditions and important considerations for implementing TS/S programmes.

Conclusion: The COATS Framework offers a conceptual model for TS/S programmes. The COATS Framework is comprehensive and adaptable, and can guide refinements in policy, programme development, evaluation, and research to improve TS/S globally.

Keywords: Community health workers; Conceptual framework; Delphi process; Global health; Health human resources; Task sharing; Task shifting.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Flow chart of panelist recruitment and retention
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Concepts and Opportunities to Advance Task Shifting and Task Sharing (COATS) Framework
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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