Multidisciplinary cancer conferences: exploring the attitudes of cancer care providers and administrators

The multidisciplinary cancer conference (MCC) provides an outlet for contributors in cancer care collectively to evaluate diagnosis and treatment options and to provide optimal patient care. The prevalence and perceived benefits of MCCs in Canada have not previously been described. Between February and March 2007, the Cancer Services Integration Survey, including four key statements concerning MCCs, was administered to cancer care providers and administrators in Ontario, Canada. A total of 1,769 responses were received with a response rate of 33%. Overall, 74% of respondents were aware of MCCs within their region, but only 58% were either regular MCC participants, or acknowledged participation of cancer providers in their institutions. Using multilevel modeling, physicians (OR 2.69, p-value < 0.01, 95% CI 1.62-4.57) and surgeons (OR 3.00, p-value < 0.01, 95% CI 1.52-6.20) both perceived greater benefit of MCCs for coordinating and improving patient plans than administrators. Although MCCs appear to positively influence patient care and interprofessional interactions, variability exists among cancer providers and administrators concerning their acceptance and perceived benefits. Further research should concentrate on further probing these trends, and exploring explanations and solutions for the inconsistent acceptance of MCCs into routine cancer care.