Talking towards excellence: a theoretical underpinning of the dialogue between doctors and managers

Purpose To explore theoretically the reasons for the modest uptake of clinical governance practices by taking the literature on the origin of tensions between doctors and managers as the starting‐point. Design/methodology/approach The approaches of doctors and managers to the division and coordination of medical work are analysed theoretically from a twofold perspective that combines insights from sociologists' theories on “professionalism” and administrative scientists' theories on “management science”. Findings The combined perspective theoretically explains the problems between doctors and managers that frustrate the uptake of clinical governance practices. By inference from this theoretical analysis, a twofold agenda for a constructive dialogue is proposed. Doctors and managers must develop a shared vision of the division and coordination of medical work as well as discussing the values, norms and goals underlying patient care. It is questionable, however, whether this agenda is currently adequately addressed. Originality/value This paper provides a theoretical underpinning for the dialogue between doctors and managers. It may be enlightening for all doctors and managers working in the field.