A Sociological Process Model of Organ Transplantation

Abstract

The paper presents a methodology for modelling complex organizational processes, enabling one to specify and to examine the complex linkages between multiple social actors, different action settings, phases and types of activity, and social rules that structure and regulate the activities. The paper applies the methodology to organ transplantation in a modern high-tech medical system. It identifies several key social rules including medical norms and public laws that are applied in concrete decision and activity settings. Important details of the organ transplantation process are represented in a flowchart model, showing key actors, action settings, choices and operations in the process.