Multidisciplinary Cancer Team

A Multidisciplinary Approach

Multidisciplinary care (MDC) is an integrated team approach to health care, in which medical and allied health care professionals consider all relevant treatment options, and develop collaboratively an individual personalised treatment plan for each patient. All relevant health professionals discuss options, and make joint recommendations about treatment and supportive care plans, taking into account the personal preferences of the patient.

Why is it Important?

Multidisciplinary care allows all relevant disciplines to contribute to decisions about the care of patients with cancer. Using a team approach to cancer care ensures there is input from all disciplines, not just one. This provides up to date evidence-based recommendations for effective treatment.

Benefits of MD Care

Receive care in accordance with clinical practice guidelines
All treatment options can be considered, and treatment plans tailored for individual patients
Referral pathways are more likely to be streamlined and care is coordinated
Security for the patient that care is being managed by an expert team
Patient care is evidence-based
Increased access to information, particularly about psychosocial and practical support
Increased patient satisfaction with care

Who Participates in Meetings?

Core Team Members

Breast Surgeons
Medical oncologists
Radiation oncologists
TissuPath Pathologist
Breast Imaging Victoria Radiologist
Breast Imaging Victoria Sonographer
Supportive care
Oncology nurse/breast care nurse

Key Principles

Communication among team members regarding treatment planning
Access to the full range of treatment options for all patients, regardless of geographical remoteness or size of the institution
Provision of care in accordance with nationally agreed standards

Fee Schedule

In order to cover the administration costs associated with holding the meeting, we bill Medicare directly and there will be no charge to the patient and no out of pocket costs associated with this meeting.