Processes of integrating care: discussing sociological and Gestalt relational perspectives

Purpose In a recent paper in this journal, Clark et al. (2024) discuss insights from applying a sociologically grounded relational theoretical perspective to understanding integrating care. That paper formed the focus for an ongoing discussion between the authors of this paper about relational theories. Two of the authors have drawn on a Gestalt theoretical tradition to develop a Relational Organisational Gestalt perspective to understanding organisations. In this article, we continue the dialogue the authors have developed across the sociological and Gestalt relational perspectives and how these apply to understanding integrating care. Design/methodology/approach In this article, we consider the sociological and Gestalt relational perspectives and their application to understanding the process of integrating care. We discuss key conceptual elements of both approaches and their overlaps, and how these can be directly useful when organising for integrating care. Findings A sociological relational perspective and a Gestalt (particularly relational organisational Gestalt) one share key conceptual concerns. These include the primary focus on relations as the fabric of social phenomena, the ongoing flow and emergence from complex social webs of interactions, including people's identity. This leads to a different perspective on understanding integrating care, namely one focused on it as an ongoing process rather than an end state of correct organisational arrangements. Applying these fundamental insights to managing integrating care can be disconcerting, especially in an ideological environment emphasising individuals, hierarchy and control. However, the conceptual tools of the relational perspectives discussed can be useful in navigating integrating care. Research limitations/implications The sociological relational and Gestalt perspectives have many similarities which bring helpful perspectives to understanding integrating care. Although this article emerges from a dialogue amongst the authors, it is grounded in many years of experience of thinking about and applying the relational perspectives set out here. Adopting these perspectives will guide a research agenda for integrating care. More empirical work is required to further develop the evidence base for relational understanding of integrating care. Practical implications We highlight practical insights and lessons from these relational perspectives for understanding and managing integrating care. Originality/value This is the first article examining the links between the sociological perspective and Gestalt relational perspectives and their application to integrating care. From discussing these perspectives, we highlight conceptual and practical approaches to understanding and managing integrating care.