Importance+of+MDT

= Importance of a multi-disciplinary Team  =

In the treatment of oral cancer, there are many team members involved, who carry out a variety of tasks in order to produce the most effective treatment plan for the patient. Many studies have suggested that because there are so many members involved in the implementation and coordination of treatment, it is a primary concern that they work together as a team in order to improve communication, decision-making and coordination (Fleissig et. al, 2006; Brown&Langdon, 1995; Ord& Blanchaert, 2001; Rapidis et. al, 1980).

A study conducted by Fleissig et. al (2006) discussed the effectiveness of multi-disciplinary teams (MDT). They found that if they are not working effectively, have enormous potential for miscommunication and poor coordination which could have disastrous consequences on the patients.

The study concluded that the make up of a group with multiple professions would (at its ideal) increase the chances of patient survival, and demonstrated this with a previous study conducted in the south and west of England where patient survival was thought to have increased by 28%. This is due to the most appropriate treatments used for each individual, as the knowledge base would be hugely increased of all aspects influencing treatment, due to the number of specialists combining their areas of expertise. The study also suggested that because of the increased working relationship between team members, a system of peer review would automatically be applied delivering "quality improvement initiatives".

Other benefits would include a more proficient coordination of treatment services and more consistent information being relayed to the patient. A study by Rapidis et. al (1980) suggested that interdisciplinary competition was often the biggest barrier of MDT's and their proficient cohesion.

Please refer to the link below for other factors contributing to a proficient multi-disciplinary team:

Importance of Administration