[Ambulatory, interdisciplinary team work in the tension field between theory and practice--Vorarlberg social medicine...

Presented is the Social-Medical Organization active in the field of ambulatory neurological care of adults in Vorarlberg, Austria, offering interdisciplinary cooperation possibilities in terms of team consultation, case presentation and discussion, as well as supervision. Ambulatory interdisciplinary teamwork is situated in a theory-practice field of tension, with occupational training failing to teach interdisciplinary cooperation and interdisciplinarity role models not encountered either during practicals. The ensuing, deliberately identified problems and issues have been addressed in a planned process. Familiarization with the various occupational fields involved, with each field having its specific job profile, as well as the notions on cooperation among the various fields are presented. The role the various occupational fields have in neurological aftercare as well as existing job profile clichés are reflected upon. Communication is in addition hampered by the diversity of training contents in the various occupational fields. Focussing on case presentation and discussion, teams are considered a place for obtaining advice, for joint development of targets and strategies, and interdisciplinary interfacing is no longer perceived as threatening but as enriching and productive. The role of stronger family doctor inclusion in formulation therapy goals remains an issue as yet unsolved.