Social science and teams: a patient perspective.

ABSTRACT

Teamwork is fundamental for providing high quality care and providing positive experiences for patients. Concepts from organisational behaviour and social science are integrated with a patient perspective to elucidate how various aspects of teams impact on the patient experience. Particular attention is devoted to the team composition, the interaction and communication patterns among team members, how teams are structured, coordination among team members, facilitating a positive team climate, and considering patients as a member of the team.