What is the term for the line of authority in a care facility?

The term "chain of command" refers to the established line of authority and responsibility within a care facility, outlining how decisions are to be made and how communication flows. It defines who reports to whom and ensures that staff understand their roles and responsibilities within the organization. This structure is crucial in maintaining an efficient and orderly operation, especially in environments where clear communication and delegation of tasks impact the quality of care provided to residents.

Understanding the chain of command is essential for effective teamwork and coordination in a healthcare setting, as it helps ensure that all staff members know whom to approach for guidance or to report issues, promoting accountability and safety in patient care. In contrast, terms like "authority structure" or "organizational chart" might relate to similar concepts but do not specifically denote the hierarchical reporting relationships that the chain of command clearly illustrates, whereas "staff hierarchy" tends to describe the levels of staff but lacks the connotation of command and duty that comes with the chain of command.