In the hospital, there is a group of professions that will help manage your care. This is called a multidisciplinary team, often shortened to MDT.
Depending on the type of cancer and how it is treated, this may include:
- Consultant – This is an expert doctor also referred to as a specialist. They may be a surgeon, oncologist (cancer specialist) or haematologist (blood cancer specialist).
- Cancer clinical nurse specialist – This is a nurse and likely your key worker who can help you to understand your treatment options and support you through your cancer experience. They will have a conversation when you are diagnosed to understand your individual needs (Holistic Needs Assessment/Concerns Checklist) which will help them provide the best support plan for you.
- Cancer support worker – This is a colleague who works closely with your cancer clinical nurse specialist/key worker and can provide information, education, identify concerns and refer you and your family to other available resources.
- Radiologist – This is a specialist who is trained to look at scans. This includes CT scans, MRI scan and X-rays. They will often not be known to you, but they will contribute their knowledge and skills to planning and improving your care.
- Pathologist – This is a specialist who studies cells and will analyse biopsies or blood tests. The pathologists will also often not be known to you, but they will contribute their knowledge and skills to planning and improving your care.
- Research nurse – This nurse is part of a wider team and may be involved in your care if you are offered and accept treatment within a clinical trial.
- Pharmacist – This is a specialist who will be involved in producing your SACT and supportive medication. They will often not be known to you but they will contribute their knowledge and skills to planning and improving your care.
Cancer teams
- Acute Oncology Service
- Breast Team
- Colorectal/Lower Gastrointestinal Team
- Gynaecological Malignancy Team
- Haemato-oncology Team
- Head and Neck Malignancy team
- Lung
- Other – neuro-endocrine, sarcoma, skin, brain
- Radiotherapy (Not at PAHT)
- Upper Gastrointestinal Team
- Uro-oncology Team (Urology)