Multidimensional Care Of The Cancer Patient
ANSWERS
In oncology, a multidisciplinary team (MDT) is the collaboration of various specialized professionals involved in cancer care to improve treatment efficiency and patient care. Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a group of biologically distinct diseases requiring different treatments. Patient symptoms and treatment side effects, as well as physical and psychological impact, will differ depending on the location of cancer and the treatment plan. In contrast to the old concept of a single physician providing global treatment, joining the efforts of various professionals is thought to improve patient management.
The goal is to provide the best treatment possible while empowering patients and assisting them in maintaining their quality of life. This necessitates the involvement of a variety of specialists, each of whom brings something unique to the table, such as:
Oncologists from various disciplines, including surgical, medical, and radiation oncologists, diagnostic imaging specialists, and pathologists
Nurses, nurse navigators, genetic counselors, social workers, physical therapists, and hospital pharmacists are some of the other cancer care specialists.
Including doctors from various specialties on a care team is critical for developing the most effective treatment plan, according to Kumar. It can also provide patients access to treatment options that their primary oncologist may not have considered, such as a clinical trial in another discipline.
QUESTION
Multidimensional Care Of The Cancer Patient
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in both men and women. Caring for the cancer patient and family requires a multidimensional approach.
What does it mean to provide a multidimensional approach? What are some examples of how the care team can meet the patient and the family’s needs? Who are the members of the care team and how are they involved in providing multidimensional care?