Role of the Multidisciplinary Team in Oncology Care

Role of the Multidisciplinary Team in Oncology Care

Cancer is complex and requires team-based care from many different healthcare professionals.1 It is common for healthcare professionals across multiple disciplines to work together in hospitals and clinics before, during and after cancer treatment.2,3

The goal of the oncology team is to collaborate and coordinate care and improve outcomes throughout a patient’s cancer journey.1-5 Today’s cancer patients receive care from physicians and other healthcare professionals from various specialties, from diagnosis, treatment and monitoring to survivorship all the way to palliative care.6 Complex cancer care often requires a multidisciplinary approach.6 Often, physician subspecialists beyond the oncologist may be involved in the treatment plan.6 Many teams also have an oncology patient navigator, who helps guide patients from diagnosis through survivorship, finding counseling, financial and other support services; setting up appointments; and more.1-6

References

  1. Cancer.net. The Oncology Team. Approved August 2020. https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/cancer-basics/cancer-care-team/oncology-team
  2. Your Health Care Team: Understanding Their Roles. Last updated January 7, 2021. https://www.cancercare.org/publications/59-your_health_care_team_understanding_their_roles
  3. American Cancer Society. Health Professionals Associated with Cancer Care. Last Revised: August 7, 2019. https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/choosing-your-treatment-team/health-professionals-associated-with-cancer-care.html
  4. National Cancer Institute. People in Health Care. Updated November 12, 2021. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/managing-care/services/providers
  5. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Your Cancer Care Team. https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/your-care-team
  6. Singhi EK, Feldman J, West HJ. Multidisciplinary Cancer Conference. JAMA Oncol. 2023;9:288.

All URLs accessed February 9, 2023

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