research |

Already in 2017, we conducted preliminary research on Mangomoments. For this we made a call within the transmural care process of persons with oncological disease. We collaborated with AZ Diest, Imelda Bonheiden and UZ Leuven. That way, we collected different types of Mangomoments from patients, residents, family and caregivers. Soon, several care organizations joined and the scope was expanded from just people with cancer to all people in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, residential care centers, centers for people with disabilities and primary care.

To further explore Mangomoments, and how they come about and what they lead to, we used a combination of different research methodologies. We conducted interviews with patients, family members, caregivers and caregivers, conducted a literature review, organized focus groups to prioritize the Manomoments and verify their feasibility, and organized a consensus meeting.

This first phase of research led to the development of the Mangomoment model, published in Mangomoment - With a small gesture towards warmer care,Mangomoment - A small act of kindness & leadership and Vanhaecht et al. (2020). Mangomomoments - preconditions and impact on patients and families, healthcare professionals and organisations: a multi-method study in Flemish hospitals. BMJ Open.

ABSTRACT:

Vanhaecht et al. (2020), BMJ Open

Objective Understanding how small unexpected acts or gestures by healthcare professionals, known as Mangomoments, are translated into practice, what their preconditions are and what their impact is on patients and families, healthcare professionals and organisations.
Design A multi-method design was used based on four phases: (1) A (media) campaign to collect Mangomoment stories (n=1045), of which 94% (n=983) were defined as Mangomoments; (2) Semi-structured interviews (n=120); (3) Focus group interviews (n=3); and (4) A consensus meeting.
Setting Respondents from a hospital and primary care setting.
Participants Patients, family, healthcare professionals, managers, researchers and a policymaker participated.
Results Mangomoments are mainly classified in the dimensions 'Respect for values, preferences and needs'.
and 'Emotional support'. Differences in importance of the dimensions were found between healthcare professionals, oncological patients and family and non-oncological patients and family. The results of the interviews, focus groups and consensus meeting were visualized by the Mangomoment model. It identifies several preconditions on the level of patients, healthcare professionals and leadership. For each of these preconditions a catalyst was identified to increase the prevalence of Mangomoments. In general, Mangomoments improved the patient and family experience and facilitated adherence to therapy and led to a positive perception on the healing process. Positive effects for professionals include personal
accomplishment and anti-burnout, joy in work and a positive team atmosphere. This led to positive resonance
by a relationship of trust between the patient and the healthcare professionals, feelings of tolerance during negative experiences and open communication and a safe climate. Overall, patients and healthcare workers
concluded that Mangomoments led to loyalty to the healthcare organization.
Conclusion Mangomoments do not only have a positive impact on patient and family but also on the healthcare professional. Leadership should shape several preconditions and catalysts which can lead to positive resonance and loyalty of patients and professionals.

Currently, the research focuses on the implementation of a Mangoment culture in Flemish care organizations. This research is led by Prof. Dr. Kris Vanhaecht (LIGB-KU Leuven, UZ Leuven) and is supported by Kom op Tegen Kanker.