Introduction: Whole-person approach represents a fundamental tenet of integrated care globally. However, there remains a lack of consensus regarding its precise definition and an inclination towards superficial and formal implementation. This study aims to compare the similarities and differences between Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspectives on the whole-person approach, and their potential implications for integrated care. Methods: We performed a scoping review search of original articles with a sufficient definition of a whole-person approach published in English (Wed of Science) and Chinese (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) between January 2010 and July 2024. A total of 127 articles deemed relevant to this overview were synthesized using a thematic analysis. Results and Discussion: The study reveals that both Western medicine and TCM adopt a whole-person approach in integrated care, characterized by multidimensionality, dynamism, capability, and collaboration. However, the study also highlights that the goals and focuses of the whole-person approach in Western medicine and TCM differ. The research further discusses the importance of developing a genuine integration of the best ideas from both Western medicine and TCM to achieve a comprehensive and effective whole-person approach to integrated care. Conclusions: This study highlights the culture-specific perspectives in the whole-person approach to integrated care, and also underscores the necessity of integrating the strengths of this approach derived from diverse cultural contexts.

Using qualitative methods, this study explores the roles of social workers in a healthcare team in the context of China. It reveals that, like their international counterparts, Chinese social workers also adopt a client-centered approach. However, they usually utilize such an approach at the family level rather than the individual level. In order to fulfill professional responsibilities, Chinese social workers need to adjust their roles to take on some nonprofessional tasks within the bureaucratic systems, which would help them further embed their roles into the teams. Strategies for maximizing the professional roles of social work in multi-professional teams are also discussed.

The development model of medical social work in China is transitioning from embedded to integrated. The process of linking multiple subjects to achieve integrated development requires further exploration. Utilizing a practical theoretical framework and employing a case study method, this research discusses the practical logic of integrated development of medical social work. Findings indicate that multiple subjects interact based on factors such as power, resources, and habitus, adapting strategies through reflection. This study provides a framework to enhance collaboration among multiple subjects in medical social work. Future research could track the impact of integrated development through longitudinal studies.