Successful multidisciplinary team working: an evaluation of a Huntington's disease service

Abstract

Background: Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative condition that affects motor, behavioural and cognitive functioning. This triad of complex symptoms often requires input from a number of different services. Methods: An evaluation of a multidisciplinary, nurse-led, community-based service was conducted by undertaking interviews with 11 health and social care professionals who had worked with or as part of the HD service. Findings: The participants identified two elements as being key to the successful working of the HD service: team working and the role of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS). Those working as part of the HD service recognised that they contributed to a 'virtual' team, often not physically in the same place but coordinated and led by the CNS. Conclusion: The success of the HD service was due to not only the multidisciplinary nature of the team but also the specific people in those roles.