Multicenter study on multidisciplinary committees in advanced prostate cancer.

Area of Science:

• Uro-oncology
• Multidisciplinary Team functioning
• Prostate Cancer Management

Background:

• Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs) are recommended for Advanced Prostate Cancer (APC) management.
• Real-world functioning of these teams remains under-evaluated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functioning of uro-oncology MDTs across six hospitals.
• To assess compliance with fundamental quality requirements and gather member perspectives.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted.
• Compliance with Fundamental Quality Requirements (CFQR) assessed via coordinator questionnaires.
• Member perspectives gathered through anonymous surveys.

Main Results:

• High CFQR level (75%) observed, with noted deficiencies in protocol updates, agendas, audits, and scientific output.
• Physician surveys revealed satisfaction with meeting duration but disparities in protocol updates and protected meeting time.
• MDT decisions documented in 65.1% of cases and binding in 60.5%; 50% of members lack MDT training.
• Most participants (90.7%) recognize the benefits of MDTs.

Conclusions:

• MDT evaluations highlight correctable deficiencies.
• Improvements require addressing hospital inertia and enhancing care planning.