Coproduction Within Intersectoral Collaboration in the Context of a Neighborhood with Low Socioeconomic Scores in The Netherlands

Intersectoral collaboration between health care, social care and other sectors has been widely advocated to improve population health outcomes. Similarly, the active role of citizens as coproducers is increasingly described in the literature as an important element for improving people’s health and well-being. Yet, there is little understanding of the role of coproduction in intersectoral collaboration, particularly in neighborhoods with low socioeconomic scores (SESs). In this empirical study, we analyze two aspects of coproduction that potentially drive positive health outcomes in intersectoral collaboration: How do coproducers in neighborhoods with low socioeconomic scores actively contribute to intersectoral collaboration, and what role does the relationship between professionals and citizens play in shaping these contributions? The study was conducted in a low-SES neighborhood in The Hague, the Netherlands. In this study, we explored the team ‘the Connectors’, an intersectoral collaboration of professionals and citizens with various (professional) backgrounds, focusing on accessible support for mental health services. The cause of mental health problems in low-SES neighborhoods varies; therefore, intersectoral collaboration is required in the approach to addressing these mental health problems. Using an action research approach, we demonstrated the importance of a reciprocal relationship between coproducers and professionals. We also found that ‘boundary spanners’ can help to improve this relationship, regardless of whether they are professionals or coproducers. We conclude that citizens in a low-SES neighborhood can not only benefit from coproduction, but can also contribute to it, because they have a high incentive to improve their neighborhood together with professionals in the intersectoral collaboration.