Morbidities of any sort necessitate a multifaceted approach to care. Modern healthcare quality practices go beyond a simple prescription as all that is required to treat a condition (Selby et al., 2019). Today’s diseases are increasingly complicated, and the demands have evolved to include the care of the entire person. This includes risk factor management, non-pharmacological therapy, cultural concerns, and nutritional requirements. According to Taberna et al. (2020), in oncology, a multidisciplinary team is described as the collaboration of several specialist experts participating in cancer care with the ultimate objective of increasing treatment efficiency and patient care. Selby et al. (2019) state that these teams must be well-organized, efficient, and well-led, and the team members must work with accurate and timely information; and must communicate well within the team and with their patients. Patients require well-prepared information to participate in decision-making and should also be a part of the team. Team members should research and conduct clinical trials to enhance results for all of their patients. Moreover, patient participation and empowerment should increase patient satisfaction and results. Patient-reported outcome measures will help team members gain a better understanding of their patients’ issues and symptoms, which will enhance patient outcomes.
Moreover, to provide wholesome care for the patients and address the needs of their families, psychology professionals can be involved, and can help these individuals overcome their difficulties. Other members of the care team would-be nurses and physicians who specialize in oncology. Apart from addressing the family members’ psychological needs, the care team should recognize their cultural needs. This means that the professionals should understand the background of this family and what specific beliefs and values affect their behaviors and approach to health.
References
Selby, P., Popescu, R., Lawler, M., Butcher, H., & Costa, A. (2019). The value and future developments of multidisciplinary team cancer care. American Society of Clinical Oncology Educational Book, 39, 332-340.
Taberna, M., Gil Moncayo, F., Jané-Salas, E., Antonio, M., Arribas, L., & Vilajosana, E. (2020). The multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach and quality of care. Frontiers in Oncology, 10.