Uro-genital oncology synergy: Accelerating treatment with multidisciplinary joint counseling clinic

Abstract

Background: Uro-genital oncology patients often face complex treatment decisions requiring multiple consultations, which can delay treatment initiation and lead to fragmented care. Traditional approaches are particularly challenging for patients with multiple treatment options. Multidisciplinary care models have been shown to improve patient outcomes. This project introduces a multidisciplinary joint counseling clinic (MDJCC) to enhance the quality and efficiency of uro-genital oncology care.

Methods: MDJCC was piloted from May 2019 to January 2020, paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, and re-established in September 2023. Outcome measures include the percentage of patients who make final treatment decisions during or shortly after the clinic. Process measures track the number of clinics conducted monthly, and balance measures assess patient satisfaction. The target population comprises post uro-genital oncology multidisciplinary team (MDT) cases requiring surgical, medical, or radiation therapy.

Results: The clinic reduced delays in traditional counseling pathways, enabling most patients to decide on treatment during the same session or within 7 days, compared to the previous 30-day standard. Consolidating disciplines into a single visit optimized resource utilization, reduced costs, and improved patient understanding and satisfaction.

Conclusion: The MDJCC significantly improved care quality, streamlined decision-making, and enhanced patient satisfaction in uro-genital oncology, highlighting its value as a care model.

Keywords

healthcare efficiency / joint counseling clinic / multidisciplinary care / treatment decision-making / urology

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The Author(s). UroPrecision published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Higher Education Press.