AUTHOR=Fiordelli Maddalena , Diviani Nicola , Ort Alexander , Rubinelli Sara 
  
TITLE=Effective Communication Within and Across Public Health Institutions: A Qualitative Study in Switzerland
  
JOURNAL=International Journal of Public Health
  
VOLUME=Volume 70 - 2025
  
YEAR=2026
  
URL=https://www.ssph-journal.org/journals/international-journal-of-public-health/articles/10.3389/ijph.2025.1609055
  
DOI=10.3389/ijph.2025.1609055
  
ISSN=1661-8564
  
ABSTRACT=ObjectivesThis paper explores the communication challenges faced by public health institutions in Switzerland during COVID-19 pandemic and identifies key barriers and facilitators of effective communication within and across public health institutions.MethodsIn 2021, we conducted qualitative online semi-structured interviews to collect opinions and experiences of representatives of Swiss public health institutions. Interview transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis to identify main themes.ResultsKey facilitators of effective communication included flexibility, dedicated resources, new processes, coordination, and experiential knowledge. Inter-institutional communication benefited from clear processes, active listening, mediation, and strong networks. Barriers mirrored these factors, such as role tensions, unclear responsibilities, and limited resources. Discrepancies across cantons and between government levels, especially between the confederation and cantons, often hindered communication.ConclusionTo strengthen communication in public health crises, we recommend clear protocols, centralized structures, and bridging cultural and linguistic gaps. Ongoing training and diverse perspectives are key to effective communication within and across public health institutions in Switzerland and beyond.