[Interfaces in rehabilitation: three models]

Interfaces can cause disruptions in the care provision process. They can, however, also signify a differentiated and specialized division of labour of the care providing system. Three models for the description of interfaces are presented and compared: a linear model oriented towards the continuity of the provision of care for individuals, the Principal Agent (PA) Model from contract theory, and a complex systems model. In all three models coupling and information management are identified as essential interface functions. In regard to optimisation possibilities, the linear model leads to the case-management concept, the PA Model to integrated forms of provision and systems theory to context controlling.