The interdisciplinary approach involves the collaboration of two or more scientific disciplines that combine their knowledge, methods, and perspectives to produce holistic and innovative solutions to complex problems. This approach differs from the multidisciplinary method, where disciplines work side by side but maintain their own boundaries and methodologies. In contrast, the interdisciplinary approach emphasizes integration, joint analysis, and synthesis.

Key features of the interdisciplinary approach include collaboration, synthesis and integration, multidimensionality, and innovation. Different disciplines approach a shared problem from their unique perspectives to develop new and comprehensive solutions. For example, climate change is addressed through the collaboration of geography, environmental engineering, economics, and political science, while artificial intelligence ethics involves input from computer science, philosophy, law, and sociology.

In the field of health sciences, the interdisciplinary approach offers a holistic view of patient care, considering physical, psychological, social, and environmental dimensions. Fields such as medicine, nursing, psychology, physiotherapy, social work, and nutrition work together to provide patient-centered and effective care. Core components of this approach include shared decision-making, open communication, role distribution, and coordinated treatment planning. Interdisciplinary collaboration is especially important in managing complex health problems and ensures the efficient use of available resources.