Sunderby Hospital in Norrbotten, Sweden, is developing a new work approach focused on collaboration, flexibility, and holistic patient flow management, according to Region Norrbotten. The initiative involves implementing a rotation system where healthcare staff rotate between acute surgery, operation, and postoperative care departments. The system aims to break down traditional departmental boundaries and create both better patient care and a more attractive workplace.
The project is led by unit managers Åsa Carlsson from the day surgery/recovery/postoperative unit, Anna Andersson and Julia Halatchev from the operating department, and Therese Enbom from the acute surgery department. According to Åsa Carlsson, the team is passionate about ensuring good patient flows and a positive work environment for staff handling these types of patient flows. Previously, the departments operated largely in parallel with clear boundaries between them, but the new approach seeks to move beyond this 'silo mentality' and create more integrated care pathways.