Attending the plenary discussion on investing in people at this year’s All Ireland Conference on Integrated Care (AICIC25) reinforced the crucial role of family carers as a visible workforce in integrated care. Their inclusion is essential in building bridges across professions and developing effective care plans.
Bernard Gloster’s opening speech set the tone for the day by exploring workforce development and relationship-building. He emphasised that integrated care works best when professionals are selfless, collaborative, and committed to serving others. Above all, he stressed that the work being carried out should always benefit the people receiving care, a sentiment echoed throughout the discussions throughout the day.
Perspectives on Workforce Composition
The first panel discussion offered diverse viewpoints on workforce development, each highlighting key priorities. Tony Canavan underscored the importance of equipping the workforce to deliver the best outcomes for those they care for, ultimately leading to better integration. Jacqui Browne noted that many people receiving care do not yet experience true integrated care, with only 21% of respondents in the 2024 IFIC survey believing it is being delivered.
Professor Martin Curley showcased the transformative benefits of digital health, while Mary Brigid Collins emphasised the need to meet people where they are at—particularly in terms of literacy and the shift toward digital healthcare. Jennifer Glasford highlighted the significant role of volunteers, managing a team of 130 at the National Rehabilitation Hospital, to help deliver integrated care.
The Role of Family Carers in Interprofessional Collaboration
Deirdre O’Donnell’s presentation on promoting interprofessional collaboration in older people’s care highlighted the value of including family carers. How silos and hierarchies can be barriers but by practicing core competence in interprofessional collaboration this can be minimised. She emphasised the significance of developing a resource pack with seven programs, one which ensured family carers meaningful participation.
Joan Johnson reinforced the idea that family carers are often the care coordinator and can be invisible workforce, a sentiment that resonated strongly. Mo Flynn stressed that for interprofessional collaboration to be effective in practice, policies must be clear and accurate. She also emphasized the need for trust in each other's competencies when making assessments and decisions. CORU have also done focus groups that include family carers so that they can voice what skills they perceive are needed in professionals.
Professor Edward McKone and Gozie Offiah advocated the need for embedding integrated care principles into curriculums across multiple specialties. Gozie Offiah talks about the restrictive time within the curriculum to deliver everything, but that integrated care teaching should start from day one. Professor Edward McKone stated the development of inclusion health curriculum will also be beneficial to embedding integrated care. Andy Philip brought in the perspective of leveraging IT systems and AI to enhance workforce investment and emphasized the role of clinical governance in building an integrated system based on strong relationships with the people it serves.
AICIC25 reinforced the growing recognition of family carers as key contributors to integrated care. The ongoing conversations and developments in this area continue to strengthen their role, ensuring they become a more visible and valued part of the healthcare system.
Lynne Dennehy
Family Carers Ireland