[Materializing interdisciplinary outpatient management of complex situations]

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Interdisciplinary Care
• Patient-Centered Medicine

Context:

• Increasing complexity in patient management due to chronic diseases and aging populations.
• Fragmented Swiss healthcare system hindering coordinated care across disciplines and institutions.
• Need for improved models to manage complex patient situations effectively.

Purpose:

• To present an action-research study empowering health professionals in outpatient settings.
• To explore facilitating components and obstacles in managing complex patient situations.
• To advocate for a coordinated team approach in healthcare.

Summary:

• A team approach is crucial for managing multifaceted patient issues, prioritizing patient needs, and developing joint care plans.
• Highlights the essential roles of team members, including patient education, caregiver support, and nursing coordination.
• Successful implementation requires new processes, funding for coordination, and advanced interdisciplinary management tools, including information technology.

Impact:

• Empowers healthcare professionals to better manage complex patient cases.
• Establishes a framework for effective interdisciplinary collaboration in outpatient settings.
• Provides insights into necessary systemic changes for improved healthcare coordination and financing.