HOW DOES A MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO ALL CANCERS WORK?

The multidisciplinary approach works by bringing together experts from different medical specialities to collaborate on every aspect of a patient's care, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care. Every specialist brings their distinctive perspective and expertise to customise the treatment plan according to the specific needs of each patient. This process considers various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and their personal preferences.

In this approach, communication and coordination among team members are crucial. Regular meetings, known as tumour boards or multidisciplinary team meetings, are held to discuss each patient's case in detail, review diagnostic test results, and discuss treatment options. During these meetings, the team considers all available treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and palliative care, to develop the most effective and personalised treatment plan for the patient.

Furthermore, the multidisciplinary team collaborates to orchestrate an array of supportive care services, including pain management, nutritional assistance, and psychosocial support, to comprehensively address the patient's holistic needs and enhance their quality of life throughout their cancer journey.

Implementing a multidisciplinary approach across all cancers requires a systematic and cooperative approach involving several essential stages:

1. Patient assessment and diagnosis: This phase begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's medical background, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including imaging scans, biopsies, and laboratory assessments. These evaluations aim to accurately diagnose the type and stage of cancer.
2. Multidisciplinary team conference: After confirming the diagnosis, the patient's case is presented at a multidisciplinary team conference. During this meeting, specialists from diverse fields come together to review the findings and collaboratively devise a tailored treatment plan suited to the patient's individual needs.
3. Treatment planning and coordination: The multidisciplinary team collaborates to formulate the recommended treatment strategy, which may involve surgical procedures, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the team coordinates supportive care services and addresses any potential adverse effects or complications associated with the treatment regimen.
4. Implementation of treatment plan: Once the treatment plan is finalised, the various components of the plan are implemented according to the schedule and sequence determined by the multidisciplinary team. Close communication and coordination among team members ensure that the patient receives appropriate care at every stage of treatment.
5. Ongoing monitoring and follow-up: Throughout the course of treatment and beyond, the multidisciplinary team continues to monitor the patient's progress, evaluate treatment response, and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess the patient's recovery, address any new symptoms or concerns, and provide ongoing support and guidance.