Health care is a complex dynamic setting suitable for system dynamics analyses. The method has the potential to be an important quality improvement tool in the near future. However, it will be necessary to develop the models beyond the pure production model focus on the clinical care process from a patent perspective and in doing so it is inevitable that variables such as health, communication and care planning are involved. Consequently, useful and valid models for modern health care must involve variables that are unfairly designated as intangible. The present paper describes an exploratory system dynamics model of the care planning process. It draws on a range of studies and theories about the process. The paper discusses how it could be possible to incorporate and validate variables alongside the more traditional way.