Implementation of a multidisciplinary model of care for women with metastatic breast cancer: Challenges and lessons learnt

Purpose The study aimed to examine the feasibility and impact of integrating a multidisciplinary team (MDT) model of care for women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) into a large Australian cancer centre. Challenges encountered and lessons learnt are described. Patients and Methods In this prospective, longitudinal, mixed-methods implementation study, the MDT model comprised face-to-face consultations with a breast care nurse and social worker followed by MDT case discussion and face-to-face delivery of a personalised management plan. Data were collected to describe the cohort of women living with MBC who attended a specialist breast cancer service and their supportive care needs. Results Sixty-two women with median age of 60 years (range, 37–82 years) participated. The median time since first diagnosis of breast cancer was 5.7 years (interquartile range=2.0–11.6 years) and median time since diagnosis of MBC was 2.0 years (interquartile range=0.9–3.6 years). The MDT care model required new resources and cross-sector participation. However, participants indicated preference for personalised needs assessment and care planning at the time of MBC diagnosis. Conclusions The study highlighted challenges of implementing and evaluating MDT care model for women with MBC. The model coordinated MDT collaboration to strengthen delivery of complex care plans. Investment in cross-sector partnerships to optimise care coordination for women with MBC was needed.