"Optimizing Multidisciplinary Team Workflow And Communication In Hospital Settings: A Systematic Review Of Clinical Outcomes, Medication Safety, Diagnostic Accuracy, Emergency Response, And Rehabilitative Integration Across Pharmacy, Radiology, Ems, Nursi
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63278/jicrcr.vi.3125Abstract
Background:
Effective multidisciplinary team (MDT) communication and workflow coordination are essential for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in hospital settings. Involving diverse roles such as pharmacists, radiology technicians, emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, nurses, health assistants, and prosthetics/orthotics technicians, MDTs can reduce errors, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and improve rehabilitative outcomes. However, variability in communication practices and workflow systems often hinders optimal team performance.
Objectives:
This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of MDT workflow and communication strategies across hospital-based specialties, focusing on their impact on clinical outcomes, medication safety, diagnostic efficiency, emergency response, and post-acute rehabilitative care.
Methods:
A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies published between 2010 and 2024. The review followed PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria comprised peer-reviewed studies reporting on interprofessional hospital-based collaboration involving two or more of the MDT specialties. Data were extracted, appraised using the CASP checklist, and synthesized narratively.
Results:
From 3,842 articles screened, 42 studies met the inclusion criteria. Key findings indicate that structured communication tools (e.g., SBAR, electronic handovers), centralized digital platforms (e.g., PACS, EMRs), and interprofessional training programs significantly improved task efficiency, reduced medication and diagnostic errors, enhanced EMS-to-hospital handover accuracy, and streamlined prosthetic rehabilitation timelines. Barriers included unclear role boundaries, inconsistent documentation, and limited training on interdisciplinary collaboration.
Conclusion:
Effective MDT communication and workflow systems are vital for safe and efficient hospital care. Enhancing role-specific integration and standardizing communication protocols across pharmacy, radiology, EMS, nursing, health assistance, and prosthetics/orthotics services can lead to better patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
