Introduction
A strong multidisciplinary approach to cancer care actively includes allied health and primary care, and supports rural and regional provision of cancer services. (Cancer Australia)
Multidisciplinary care involves cancer care providers working together as a team. There are many different approaches to implementing multidisciplinary care. Innovative service delivery models will be needed to provide multidisciplinary care to all cancer patients in Australia. (NSIF)
"Cancer is a complex disease. Optimal patient care requires input from specialists, allied health workers and primary care clinicians, and of course, the patient. Care may be delivered locally or some distance from where the patient lives; often involving both public and private systems. Bringing together all the essential elements of best practice to ensure optimal outcomes for all patients involves an integrated team approach - multidisciplinary care. A multidisciplinary approach should underpin patient care throughout the patient journey."
Professor Ian Olver, Cheif Executive Officer, Cancer Council Australia