The role and impact of multiskilled health practitioners in the health services industry

The utilization of multiskilled health practitioners (MSHPs) is one method of enhancing employee productivity and cost effectiveness of health services delivery. This article reviews the trend toward increasing specialization of health personnel in this century as well as its limitations and the potential of the MSHP to enhance productivity. Then research on factors that inhibit or facilitate adoption of the concept, the effectiveness of the concept, and implementation strategies that impact effectiveness are presented. The article concludes with guidelines and future challenges for health care executives, public policymakers, and researchers as regards implementation of the multiskilled concept.