New Findings from Kimberly Prendergast and Co-Authors in the Area of Health and Medicine Reported (Dietitians as Boundary Spanners: A Case Study of a Cross-Sector Health-Related Social Needs Program): Health and Medicine
2026 JUN 09 (NewsRx) -- By a
Our news journalists obtained a quote from the research, “This study asks: How do dietitians act as boundary-spanning professionals within a cross-sector nutrition program, and how does this work enable integration of medical and social care? METHODS: We conducted a qualitative case study using semi-structured interviews with nine dietitians from CBOs collaborating with a Massachusetts Medicaid ACO. Guided by Complex Adaptive Systems theory, the boundary spanning literature, and empowerment theory, we applied the Framework Method to examine how dietitians navigate cross-sector work, adapt to system challenges, and strengthen their skills through collaboration. Dietitians described the system as dynamic and interdependent, requiring ongoing adaptation. They described aspects of the ACO partnership as collaborative and supportive, enabling them to learn, adjust, and serve patients more effectively. Dietitians saw boundary spanning as exciting and mission-driven work. Cross-sector collaboration strengthened and broadened dietitians’ skill set as they learned to use advanced communication and relationship-building skills to overcome challenges such as limited access to patient data and varying information systems. Working within a CBO allowed them to address patients’ social needs, while connection to the health sector gave them access to patients who could benefit from nutrition supports. Dietitians met challenges with innovative patient-centered problem-solving, creativity, and flexibility, demonstrating adaptive capacity within a complex care ecosystem. Dietitians demonstrated strong boundary-spanning capacity, using cross-sector work as an opportunity to connect systems, refine their practice, and deliver more responsive nutrition care.”
According to the news editors, the research concluded: “Their success in meeting patients’ needs was in part due to a flexible collaborative model that empowered actors to serve patients holistically.”
This research has been peer-reviewed.
For more information on this research see: Dietitians as Boundary Spanners: A Case Study of a Cross-Sector Health-Related Social Needs Program.
The news correspondents report that additional information may be obtained from
The direct object identifier (DOI) for that additional information is: https://doi.org/10.1111/jhn.70282. This DOI is a link to an online electronic document that is either free or for purchase, and can be your direct source for a journal article and its citation.
The publisher’s contact information for the
(Our reports deliver fact-based news of research and discoveries from around the world.)
Reports on Medical Devices and Surgical Technology Findings from University of Michigan Medical School Provide New Insights (Disparities in surgical outcomes in Medicare Advantage vs traditional Medicare): Medical Devices and Surgical Technology
Hartford Fire Insurance Company Trademark Application for “HARTCONNECT” Filed: Hartford Fire Insurance Company
Advisor News
- When new investment trends emerge, Gen Z is most likely generation to be first in
- Could ‘plain English’ become an advisor’s secret weapon?
- IRI urges Senate action on 403(b) parity legislation
- Three estate planning ideas to protect your clients and their wealth
- What advisors must know about accessible client documents
More Advisor NewsAnnuity News
- NUNN INTRODUCES BILL TO CUT RED TAPE, GIVE IOWANS CLEARER INSURANCE INFORMATION
- NAIC working group pressed to accelerate annuity illustration overhaul
- State Auditor James Brown Kicks Off Life Insurance Awareness Month With Policy Locator Tool
- Wink: Annuity sales post strong Q2, led by MYGAs and structured products
- Legacy Marketing Group partners with Malibu Life USA for annuity launch
More Annuity NewsHealth/Employee Benefits News
Life Insurance News