Fostering International Collaborations to Inform Nursing and Midwifery Policy: A Caribbean Initiative

Aim

This initiative aimed to contribute to the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization's (PAHO/WHO) strategic goals for nursing and midwifery workforce development in the Caribbean by establishing a collaboration to streamline processes to collect comprehensive region-wide data and reduce respondent burden.

Background

The Caribbean region faces persistent challenges in nursing and midwifery workforce development due to high migration rates, workforce shortages, and limited regional data collection. Seven PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centers (CCs) for Nursing and Midwifery were tasked separately with Terms of Reference to support the human resources for health (HRH)-related Sustainable Development Goals of Caribbean countries.

Sources of evidence

PAHO-tasked Terms of Reference for CC activities and strategic priorities in the Caribbean.

Discussion

Using Donabedian's structure–process–outcome model, we described the development, implementation, and impact of this initiative. Structural components included the Pan American Collaborating Centers for Nursing and Midwifery (PANMCC) network, formal leadership, PAHO support, team commitment and expertise, and resources. The process emphasized regular communication, stakeholder engagement, and a collaborative approach to survey design and distribution. Outcomes included the successful development and implementation of a comprehensive survey, improved data quality, reduced respondent burden, and shared learning. Unexpected benefits were the strengthening of the PANMCC network and further opportunities for collaboration.

Conclusion

The success of this initiative was attributed to structures and processes that set the foundation for effective communication, collaboration, and synergies among the CCs to achieve project goals.

Implications for nursing policy and practice

This international collaboration showcased the importance of strong leadership, mutual commitment, and unwavering support from the PANMCC network. The findings demonstrate the potential of coordinated efforts to inform nursing and midwifery HRH policy and practice in resource-constrained regions.