SBAR and structuring the work done by the Interface Group

NHS Highlands Interface Group has standardised how work is submitted to the group by introducing an SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) template for submissions. 

Anyone wishing to raise an issue or propose a piece of work is asked to complete the SBAR template to clearly outline the problem and what they'd like the Interface Group to consider in 500 words.

This approach has improved working relationships and how work is managed. The template focuses contributors on describing the specific problem they would like resolved, which has eliminated long, narrative submissions where the core issue can be difficult to identify.

 Similarly, expectations are made explicit, helping the Interface Group quickly understand what the submitter hopes to achieve and manage expectations about what is and isn’t possible through interface working. For example, a request for a whole system change can be redirected appropriately, while a referral pathway amendment can be taken forward with the Interface Group. 

Once an SBAR has been discussed, agreed actions and responsible individuals are recorded at the bottom of the document. These actions are then logged in an action tracker to share and circulate with the person who submitted the SBAR. This creates accountability and builds trust that the Interface Group will progress work. 

To support this streamlined process, the group has introduced a generic Interface Group inbox so submissions flow directly to the co chairs for review. Staff across the NHS Highlands now know how to raise issues and trust that they will be heard. 

Implementing this structured approach has created a quicker, clearer, more efficient and trusted way for colleagues to raise interface issues and collaborate on solutions.

A template of the SBAR used by NHS Highland's Interface Group is available on request. Please contact scotland.interface@rcgp.org.uk for more information.