Abstract
BACKGROUND: The dynamics of working within multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) to manage diabetes and comorbidities remain underexplored. Investigating physicians' experiences provide insights into the benefits and challenges of MDTs in this complex context, paving the way for improving current practices and shaping future interventions to better address the needs of this patient population. AIM: To explore perceived benefits and barriers of MDTs in the management of people with diabetes and comorbidities among physicians. METHODS: Eleven semi-structured interviews (duration 26-38 min) were conducted online among physicians. Criterion sampling of physicians from relevant medical specialties and with experience from MDTs were included. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Four major themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (1) benefits of MDT, (2) challenges related to MDT, (3) the need for MDTs and cross-sectorial work, and (4) prerequisites for successful MDTs. Improved professional learning and relationships, enhanced capacity leverage, and optimized treatment were some of the major benefits. Siloed healthcare systems and cultures and resource demanding MDTs were considered barriers. Composition and outline of the MDTs, including the role of general practitioners (GPs), were considered important aspects of MDTs. The increase in multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and complexity in patient pathways necessitates MDTs and cross-sectorial work. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate several benefits and barriers of MDTs. MDTs and cross-sectorial work are needed prospectively in healthcare and hold the potential to embrace some of the challenges encountered by people with diabetes and comorbidities. Understanding and incorporating experiences of physicians could inform future improvements in care management.