Abstract

Introduction: In order to demonstrate the impact of multi-disciplinary care in the community oncology setting, we evaluated treatment decisions following the initiation of a dedicated genitourinary multi-disciplinary clinic (GUMDC).

Methods: In March 2010, a GUMDC was created at Beaumont Health System with the goal of providing patients multi-disciplinary evaluation and consensus treatment recommendations in a single visit. Urologists, radiation and medical oncologists along with ancillary support staff participated. The impact of the GUMDC on patient treatment decisions was analyzed and compared to decisions made by patients who were not referred to the GU MDC.

Results: From March 2010-12, a total of 98 men were evaluated for newly diagnosed prostate cancer in the GU MDC. This cohort was compared to 245 men in a private practice office. For all stages of prostate cancer, men seen in the GU MDC more often chose radiation, cryotherapy, and multimodal therapy. Men seen in the GU MDC less often chose active surveillance (AS), radical prostatectomy (RP), and hormonal ablation (HAT).

Conclusion: The establishment of a GU MDC improved the quality of care for cancer patients as demonstrated by improved adherence to NCCN guidelines.

Abbrevations: GUMDC: Genitourinary Multi-Disciplinary Clinic; AS: Active Surveillance; RP: Radical Prostatectomy; HAT: Hormonal Ablation; AUA: American Urological Association; NCCN: National Comprehensive Cancer Network; GUMDC: Genitourinary Multidisciplinary Clinic; NN: Nurse Navigator