A critical realist model of complexity for interprofessional working

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Social Care Studies
• Systems Theory

Background:

• Interprofessional working is crucial for integrated health and social care, especially in children's services.
• Existing models often overlook the inherent complexity and intricate causality in such collaborations.
• There's a need for theoretical frameworks that better capture the realities of interprofessional challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel theoretical model of complexity for interprofessional working.
• To address the limitations of current models in handling complex causality.
• To offer a critical realist perspective for analyzing interprofessional collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Development of a theoretical model based on critical realism and Bhaskar's domains of reality.
• Analysis of interprofessional working through the lens of open systems, complex causality, and contingency.
• Examination of typical issues and dilemmas faced by interprofessional networks.

Main Results:

• The proposed model highlights the importance of understanding open systems and complex causality in interprofessional settings.
• It provides a framework for appreciating the contingent nature of interprofessional collaboration.
• The model offers insights into the challenges faced by networks working on complex cases.

Conclusions:

• A critical realist model offers a more robust approach to understanding complexity in interprofessional working.
• Acknowledging complex causality and contingency is essential for effective collaboration in health and social care.
• This theoretical model can inform the development of more targeted and effective interventions.