News & Articles

Regardless of the type of cancer a person has, it helps to have a multidisciplinary team by their side.

Cancer, with its complexities and varied manifestations, necessitates a holistic approach to care. This is where a multidisciplinary team (MDT) — comprising oncologists, surgeons, radiologists and other healthcare specialists — becomes essential. These teams collaboratively diagnose, devise personalised treatment plans and monitor the ongoing treatment of cancer patients, ensuring comprehensive care from diagnosis to recovery.

The effectiveness of multidisciplinary teams in improving patient outcomes is well-documented. For instance, a study¹ highlighted in the European Medical Journal examined patients with lung cancer and found that those managed by MDTs not only experienced longer survival rates but also benefitted from significantly reduced recurrence risks. Particularly, patients at advanced stages of lung cancer saw the most pronounced benefits.

This trend extends across various cancer types, including colorectal, colon and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, underscoring the universal value of integrated care teams in oncology.

The members that make up an MDT

An MDT in cancer care brings together specialists from diverse medical fields to provide comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient’s unique needs. The team typically includes:

• Pathologists: Experts who analyse organs and tissues to diagnose cancer
• Radiologists: Specialists who interpret medical images to identify tumours
• Oncologists: Physicians specialised in cancer treatment
• Surgeons: Doctors who perform operations to remove cancer
• Cancer Nurse Specialists: Nurses with expertise in cancer care who provide support and manage daily care
• Allied Health Professionals: Includes dietitians, physical therapists and other specialists who contribute to holistic care

Each team is also supported by a Care Coordinator, a key figure who develops and oversees the execution of care plans, coordinates with other specialists and monitors the patient’s progress.

MDT meetings are held to review and update the patient’s treatment plan. These sessions are vital for discussing the patient’s medical history, the progress of treatment, and incorporating the patient’s own preferences and feedback into the decision-making process.

Factors for success

The MDT approach in cancer care offers several significant benefits. They include:

1. Optimal treatment plan: Cancer care is complex due to the disease’s intricacy and the myriad treatment options available. With an MDT, patients and their families can be assured that every care decision — whether concerning medication or surgery — is thoroughly considered. These teams deliberate extensively, ensuring that each treatment recommendation is grounded in the latest scientific evidence and clinical guidelines.

2. New perspectives: Specialists from various fields bring unique insights into cancer treatment, which can significantly influence care strategies. For instance, pathologists analyse the molecular genetics of the cancer, which can lead to recommendations for alternative treatments. In cases of Stage 4 lung cancer, certain genetic mutations may be better managed with oral medications rather than chemotherapy, showcasing the critical role of diverse expertise within the team.

3. Increased convenience and efficiency: Given the large number of healthcare professionals involved in a patient’s diagnosis, treatment and care, having MDT meetings can reduce the time needed to develop a treatment plan. This efficiency not only speeds up the initiation of treatment — often linked to better outcomes — but also enhances patient convenience. Centralising care coordination means patients might be able to schedule multiple appointments in a single day, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.

¹Brigitte Scott, "Multidisciplinary Team Approach in Cancer Care: A Review of the Latest Advancements", European Medical Journal Oncology, November 18, 2021, https://www.emjreviews.com/oncology/article/multidisciplinary-team-approach-in-cancer-care-a-review-of-the-latest-advancements-s130921/?site_version=EMJ