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. 2024 Mar 12;4:1340320. doi: 10.3389/frhs.2024.1340320

Table 2.

The complexities and potential drawbacks of streamlining in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.

  • 1.

    Misapplication of Definitions of Complexity:

- Streamlining efforts may lead to mismanagement of complex cancer cases if complexity definitions are not accurately applied. - Incorrect or misapplied definitions can overlook important nuances requiring interdisciplinary discussion.
2. Limited Time for Comprehensive Discussion
- Streamlining intended to focus on complex cases may inadvertently reduce overall discussion time, including for complex cases. - Complex cases may require extensive discussions for optimal decision-making.
3. Potential for Biased Decision-Making
- Streamlining can introduce biases if standardized approaches prioritize certain patient aspects. - May overlook factors like patient preferences, social circumstances, or emerging treatments, leading to biased decisions.
4. Reduced Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Streamlining involving fewer disciplines can save time but limit the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration. - Comprehensive understanding and improved treatment planning may be compromised.
5. Incomplete Information and Data Gaps
- Streamlining relies on accurate, comprehensive patient data, which data gaps can compromise. - May result in suboptimal decisions or inadequate consideration of patient needs.
6. Lack of Flexibility for Individual Variations
- Streamlining's one-size-fits-all approach may overlook individual patient variations in characteristics, comorbidities, or treatment responses. - Impact on treatment outcomes due to lack of individualized care.
7. Resistance from Team Members
- Implementing streamlining measures may face resistance from team members who perceive it as a threat to their professional autonomy. - Overcoming resistance and ensuring team buy-in is crucial for successful streamlining.