Building teamwork for better outcomes in modern neurology

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A neurosurgeon and clinical associate at Mediclinic Constantiaberg explain how collaboration across specialties helps deliver the best outcomes for patients with complex brain, spine, and neurological conditions.

At Mediclinic Constantiaberg, neurosurgeon Dr Sean Tromp and his clinical associate, Nicola van der Linden, work with a team of specialists to treat complex brain, spine, and neurological conditions. They discuss the importance of teamwork in modern neurosurgery.

Building a patient-focused team

“Teamwork is at the heart of good patient care,” says Dr Tromp, who works closely with specialists such as neurologists, oncologists, anaesthetists, ENT surgeons, endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, orthopaedic spinal surgeons, and rehabilitation experts to give patients well-rounded, coordinated treatment.

Mediclinic Constantiaberg has some of the most experienced – and in some cases, only – specialists in their fields, which is a major advantage. Dr Tromp praises the neuroscience ward, ICU, and theatre staff. “It’s on par with the best I’ve seen in the world with exceptional nursing sisters, surgical technologists, and specialists.”

He explains that multidisciplinary collaboration is key to achieving the best patient outcomes. “Building bridges between specialists creates a cohesive team where everyone holds each other accountable,” he says. This spirit of collaboration goes beyond the operating theatre – from asking advice from senior colleagues to assisting with complex cases. Seeing one another as partners, not competitors, is what defines a truly patient-focused team.

Neurosurgery especially depends on multiple specialties working together throughout diagnosis, surgery, and recovery. “If you’re treating diseases like epilepsy, you can’t do it alone,” says Dr Tromp. “You need a neurologist, a neurophysiologist, and a whole team to work with you.” Managing brain tumours, he adds, also involves radiologists and oncologists to decide on the best treatment for each patient.

Technology further supports this collaboration. Electronic systems for note-taking, sharing records, and managing patient files make communication easier and help maintain the smooth teamwork needed to deliver the highest quality care.

The role of a clinical associate in a surgical practice

As a neurosurgeon dedicated to giving patients the best care, Dr Tromp says it’s important for colleagues to support each other, both professionally and emotionally. “Sharing the workload with people who understand the pressures of the job makes it much easier to handle the challenges.”

Dr Tromp also highlights the valuable role of his clinical associate, Nicola van der Linden, who brings a different perspective to the practice. “Working with someone who isn’t a surgeon but plays a key role in the day-to-day running of the practice is incredibly helpful,” he explains.

A clinical associate in private practice, a role known internationally as a physician’s assistant, supports patient care, administrative tasks, and assists in theatre, explains Van der Linden. “Doctors share the clinical load with you, which allows them to focus on their specialty,” she says.

Van der Linden says she especially values the part of her job that involves caring for patients and their families. She takes patient histories, keeps detailed notes, and updates families during surgery, offering support and ensuring good communication. This, she adds, makes a real difference to patients’ wellbeing and experience during their most vulnerable moments in hospital.

This reflects the biopsychosocial aspect of medicine, which looks at the whole person, Van der Linden adds. “It’s not just about their physical ailment,” she says.

Dr Tromp agrees that good care goes beyond technical skill, focusing on giving patients a positive experience, clear communication, and support for their overall healing. “Making people feel safe and feel heard makes a big difference. With my wonderful secretary, clinical associate, and hospital team taking care of everything else, I can focus fully on providing the best specialist neurosurgery service possible.”