Multidisciplinary team care is comprised of at least one patient and multiple health professionals from several different disciplines. Health professionals who participate in a multidisciplinary team, care, collaborate and communicate together in order to address as many aspects of a patient’s care as possible.
As each patient has an individual journey and their condition, needs and circumstances may change over time, the flexibility of the multidisciplinary team care is paramount and valued.
The goal of a multidisciplinary care team is to provide the most comprehensive care possible, at the right place and time for each patient.
Highlighting some of the values that underlie an effective multidisciplinary team include:
In order for a multidisciplinary team to function fittingly, roles, outcomes and modes of delivery must be clearly defined. Comprehensive policies, procedures, systems and protocols are also necessary for the development of an effective multidisciplinary team.
A multidisciplinary team is first and foremost, centred upon the needs of the patient and their carers. Professionals who may contribute to the team include:
When multidisciplinary teams work effectively, both patients and practitioners benefit. Benefits include: