The Role of Integrating Multidisciplinary Healthcare Teams and Health Information Systems in Enhancing Healthcare System Efficiency: A Systems Perspective

Abstract

Background: The integration of multidisciplinary healthcare teams (MDTs) with Health Information Systems (HIS) represents a pivotal paradigm shift in modern hospital management. Despite growing recognition of their individual contributions, the synergistic effect of their simultaneous deployment within the Saudi Arabian hospital context remains insufficiently explored.

Objective: This study investigates how the integrated application of MDTs and HIS shapes healthcare system efficiency in Saudi hospitals, employing a systems-perspective framework to examine structural, communicative, and technological dimensions of care delivery.

Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative survey was administered to 100 healthcare professionals across multiple Saudi hospitals. Data were subjected to eight analytical procedures  descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, multiple linear regression, reliability analysis (Cronbach's alpha), chi-square test, and Spearman rank-order correlation  to yield robust, multi-layered insights.

Results: MDT collaboration scores demonstrated a statistically significant positive correlation with healthcare efficiency (r = 0.71, p < 0.001). HIS integration level independently accounted for 42.3% of the variance in efficiency scores (R² = 0.423). Combined MDT and HIS integration yielded the highest efficiency scores, with a mean of 83.4% compared to 61.2% for low-integration units (p < 0.001). Reliability was excellent across all constructs (α = 0.86–0.91).

Conclusion: The concurrent implementation of MDTs and advanced HIS significantly amplifies healthcare system efficiency. Saudi hospitals operating under Vision 2030 imperatives are well-positioned to leverage this integrated model, though structural, cultural, and training-related barriers must be systematically addressed.