Multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings are a cornerstone of cancer care. Introduced over 20 years ago, they aimed to reduce variation in clinical decision-making and improve patient access to optimal treatment.
However, MDTs are now under increasing pressure. Rising caseloads, more complex patient profiles due to ageing populations and comorbidities, and a growing range of treatment options have all contributed to this strain. Effective MDT functioning depends on thorough preparation, strong leadership, active participation from members, and the ability to translate discussion into clear, actionable outcomes.
Two key reports have proposed changes to MDT working. The Independent Cancer Taskforce recommended that NHS England streamline MDT processes, allowing specialist time to focus on complex cases while simpler cases are reviewed more efficiently. Similarly, Cancer Research UK advocated for defined treatment pathways for straightforward cases, freeing up time for more detailed discussion of complex patients. The report also recommended the use of structured templates to ensure consistent documentation of patient information, including performance status and comorbidities.
These recommendations were formalised in NHS England and Improvement’s 2019 guidance, Streamlining Multi-Disciplinary Team Meetings: Guidance for Cancer Alliances. This guidance supports MDTs and Cancer Alliances in adapting to the evolving demands of cancer care, as outlined in the NHS Long Term Plan and the Independent Cancer Taskforce Report.