Facilitators and barriers to effective interprofessional collaboration in rehabilitation services: a systematic review

Abstract

Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) is essential for effective rehabilitation services, integrating healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes. Despite its significance, IPC encounters multiple barriers that hinder its implementation. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize facilitators and barriers to IPC in rehabilitation services to provide evidence-based recommendations for enhancing collaborative healthcare practices. A systematic search was conducted in January 2025 across PubMed, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library. Studies were selected based on inclusion criteria covering qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research on IPC in rehabilitation. Data extraction and quality assessment followed the PRISMA guidelines and utilized the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool for qualitative studies. A total of 1,975 studies were retrieved, with 14 studies included in the final synthesis. Identified barriers included poor communication, unclear professional roles, hierarchical structures, and fragmented care pathways. Conversely, facilitators encompassed structured communication tools, interprofessional education, leadership support, and shared team goals. Effective IPC was associated with improved patient satisfaction, reduced hospital readmissions, and enhanced team efficiency. The findings underscore the necessity of structured interventions, including interprofessional education, standardized care frameworks, and institutional support to enhance IPC in rehabilitation. Addressing barriers through policy improvements and leadership engagement is crucial for fostering a collaborative healthcare culture. Future research should focus on innovative IPC models and their long-term impact on rehabilitation outcomes.

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