ABSTRACT
Complexity science represents a growing body of interdisciplinary knowledge about the structure, behaviour and dynamics of change in complex adaptive systems. Using complexity science to improve care coordination involved understanding the functioning of the relationships between the interacting agents. Analysing clinical care using complexity theory draws many parallels with the holistic model of healthcare. Holistic healthcare is an integrated approach to healthcare that treats the 'whole' person, not simply symptoms and disease, with mind and body viewed as integrated and inseparable. Complexity science can be used to understand and develop models of coordinated care pathways. The most valuable asset of the National Health Service is its workforce, and complexity has a crucial role to play in understanding the relationships involved in workforce issues. Real-life applications will ensure that the word 'complexity' has true value and real meaning.
