An example of this may be an MS team composed of a neurologist, physiatrist, urologist and a psychiatrist. Orders are written but the communication of the desired outcomes comes into question if therapists are not included in the formulation stages. How these people relate to each other often follows the pattern described as multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary. The distinguishing feature is the mode of communication. In the team approach to health care delivery communication is everything.
Leaders are essential to any team.
The leadership of a team can change depending on the task before it. While physicians are often cast into the role of 'captain', the good leader knows how to delegate leadership at the appropriate time. Multidisciplinary teams work together by contributing information which is collated piece by piece into a working plan. Interdisciplinary teams work more closely together allowing for each member's contribution to influence the contribution of the others. One mode is not necessarily better than another.