Multidisciplinary teams and social science: a patient perspective.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Services Research
• Patient-Centered Care

Background:

• Multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) are standard in colorectal cancer care.
• Current MDT practices often occur without direct patient involvement or consideration of their unique goals and desires.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the disconnect between MDT recommendations and individual patient needs in colorectal cancer care.
• To identify factors contributing to these discrepancies from a patient perspective.

Main Methods:

• Integration of specific patient examples with social science literature.
• Analysis of disconnects concerning patient-clinician relationships, patient-oriented outcomes, nonmedical information, and team dynamics.

Main Results:

• MDT recommendations may not align with patient values due to limited incorporation of patient-specific information and goals.
• Factors such as team dynamics and cognitive biases can influence MDT decision-making, creating a gap with patient perspectives.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the disconnect between MDT recommendations and patient perspectives is crucial for improving care quality.
• Incorporating patient views and nonmedical information can lead to more acceptable and effective treatment plans.