The role of the hospice medical director as observed in interdisciplinary team case reviews.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to observe the roles played by six hospice medical directors from two hospice programs during interdisciplinary team case reviews. METHODS The study analyzed videotapes of case reviews in two hospice agencies over a two year period. The results indicate that the roles and levels of participation vary. Medical Directors were observed reviewing and assisting with care plans, acting as a liaison with primary physicians, educating staff, consulting with attending physicians, participating in quality assurance activities, and dealing with budget issues. RESULTS Medical Directors did not make home visits or assume the role of attending physician during the observation period. CONCLUSIONS The study demonstrates variance in roles among medical directors and raises new questions for future research.