Educational and Clinical Impact of a Pediatric Molecular Tumor Board: Insights From a Multidisciplinary Survey

This study investigated whether participation in a weekly pediatric molecular tumor board (MTB) improves attendees' perceived knowledge and confidence in precision oncology concepts, provides perceived clinical utility, and identifies barriers that limit implementation of MTB recommendations in practice.

The study aimed to evaluate the educational impact of the pediatric MTB. It also sought to determine the perceived clinical utility of MTB discussions and recommendations. In addition, it aimed to identify provider-reported barriers to implementing MTB recommendations.

A cross-sectional, anonymous Qualtrics survey was distributed via institutional listserv to all healthcare professionals and trainees (n = 81) who attended at least one pediatric MTB at Cook Children's Medical Center since its inception in 2019.

Forty-three responses met inclusion criteria. Overall, respondents rated MTB as highly valuable and relevant to their role. A majority reported increased confidence interpreting molecular and genomic testing (mean 4.12 ± 1.05), increased awareness of targeted therapies and clinical trials (mean 4.12 ± 1.07), and improved ability to remain current with advances in precision oncology (mean 3.95 ± 1.07). Multidisciplinary dialogue, treatment planning, and case review were the most highly rated educational components. Among respondents who reported having a patient presented at MTB, 46.7% implemented or recommended an MTB-discussed therapy.

This study provides one of the first evaluations of a pediatric MTB from the lens of its attendees. Participants perceived meaningful educational benefits, including increased confidence interpreting molecular and genomic testing, greater awareness of targeted therapies and clinical trials, and improved ability to remain current in the continuously evolving field of precision oncology.