From Omnipotent Doctor to Multidisciplinary Team Susi Williams 2016

Susi Williams traces the shift from the traditionally authoritative, “omnipotent” doctor to modern multidisciplinary healthcare teams. Drawing on medical history and her own experience in general practice, hospital administration and rehabilitation medicine, she describes how nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, speech-language therapists, pharmacists and other professionals gained greater expertise, independence and accountability.

The presentation considers how multidisciplinary teams broaden the knowledge available to patients, share responsibility and reduce fragmented care, while also creating questions about leadership, confidentiality, professional boundaries and who ultimately remains responsible. Williams concludes that team-based care probably improved outcomes for patients and families, although its effects are difficult to quantify and depend heavily on communication, mutual respect and goodwill between professions.

Omnipotent Doctor (1)

From Omnipotent Doctor to Multidisciplinary Team