As a practitioner in the field of online therapy, you are likely familiar with the various challenges your clients face, including the financial burdens of healthcare. A recent study titled Medical-Legal Partnerships Facilitate Patient-Provider Cost of Care Conversations: A Multisite Qualitative Study in the U.S. sheds light on an innovative approach to addressing these challenges: Medical-Legal Partnerships (MLPs).
What Are Medical-Legal Partnerships?
Medical-Legal Partnerships (MLPs) are collaborative arrangements between healthcare providers and legal professionals. These partnerships aim to address health-harming legal needs that can negatively impact a patient's well-being. Examples include issues related to housing, access to public benefits, and employment rights.
Key Findings from the Study
The study conducted 96 semi-structured interviews across 10 states, involving 18 patients and 78 MLP personnel. Here are some key takeaways:
- Interdisciplinary Teamwork: The presence of legal staff within healthcare settings strengthens interdisciplinary collaborations and builds confidence among providers.
- Effective Cost of Care Conversations: MLPs facilitate effective patient-provider conversations about the costs of care, which can lead to improved patient outcomes.
- Training and Education: Ongoing training on social determinants of health and health-harming legal needs is crucial for effective cost of care conversations.
- Positive Patient Outcomes: Improved access to public benefits, health benefits, financial benefits, special education services, stable housing, and food.
- Return on Investment (ROI): Health systems experienced increased ROI, making MLPs a financially beneficial model.
How to Implement MLPs in Your Practice
Here are some steps to consider if you're looking to integrate MLPs into your online therapy practice:
- Build Partnerships: Reach out to local legal aid organizations and explore opportunities for collaboration.
- Training: Invest in training for your staff on social determinants of health and health-harming legal needs.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Foster a culture of interdisciplinary teamwork by involving legal professionals in regular team meetings and case discussions.
- Patient Education: Educate your clients about their rights and the legal resources available to them.
Encouraging Further Research
The findings from this study highlight the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in healthcare. However, more research is needed to explore the long-term impacts of MLPs on patient outcomes and healthcare costs. As a practitioner, staying informed about the latest research and best practices can help you continuously improve your services.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Medical-Legal Partnerships Facilitate Patient-Provider Cost of Care Conversations: A Multisite Qualitative Study in the U.S.
