Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
Module 6.0: Overview
Negotiation is a cooperative process whereby participants try to find a solution that meets the legitimate interests of involved parties; it is a discussion intended to produce an agreement.
Conflict resolution is the process of (1) resolving or managing a dispute by sharing each side’s needs and (2) adequately addressing their interests so that they are satisfied with the outcome.
Leadership in a health environment requires knowledge and skills in negotiation and conflict resolution to address differences among: stakeholders over community health issues; health care providers about appropriateness and quality of care; managers in regard to financial and administrative issues; providers and families related to access and services; and larger systems over policy, funding, and quality of care.2
MCH professionals approach negotiations and conflict with objectivity and are open to new information but aware of long-term desired outcomes that include relationship-building and development of trust. They recognize when compromise is appropriate to overcome an impasse and when persistence toward a different solution is warranted.1
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Reference
2 Adapted from Harvard’s School of Public Health Program on Health Care Negotiation and Conflict Resolution.
