Understanding and improving multidisciplinary team working in geriatric medicine

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Improvement Science
• Behavioral Safety Science

Background:

• Geriatric medicine inherently requires team-based care due to the complex comorbidities of older adults.
• Multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings are central to geriatric care, a model now recognized by other medical specialties.
• Despite its reliance on teamwork, geriatric medicine has lagged in formally enhancing and supporting team collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a reflective review of team working patterns in geriatric medicine.
• To analyze the role of MDTs within the evolving landscape of geriatric care.
• To integrate insights from behavioral safety science to improve geriatric team collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Reflective review grounded in expertise in geriatric medicine and improvement science.
• Application of principles from behavioral safety science, with 20 years of research on healthcare teamwork.
• Synthesis of evidence and best practices for modern geriatric medicine.

Main Results:

• Geriatric medicine has long utilized MDTs, predating their adoption in other fields.
• There's a recognized need to formally enhance, train, and support teamwork within geriatric teams.
• Behavioral safety science offers valuable perspectives on optimizing healthcare team performance.

Conclusions:

• Geriatric medicine's reliance on MDTs is a foundational aspect of patient care.
• Formalizing and enhancing team collaboration is crucial for addressing current and future challenges in geriatric medicine.
• Integrating evidence-based practices and insights from safety science can optimize geriatric care delivery.