Abstract

Introduction: The impact of the pandemic on the educational experience of the cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting is unclear. The aim of the study was to determine if the pandemic altered the MDT learning experience for trainees, if so how, and what practical barriers result in a negative experience. 

Methods: An anonymous online survey was designed via the platform surveyplanet.com and distributed to general surgery, pathology, oncology and radiology trainees across the U.K. Distribution was via trainee forums, email groups and social media.

Results: In total 138 responded, with pathology and surgical trainees accounting for the majority (47.8% and 40.6%). Pre-pandemic, greater than 50% of trainees were attending one MDT per week, with the majority of these being face to face (73.9%). Almost 90% of participants described the pre-pandemic MDT educational experience as positive.  Following the onset of the pandemic, attendance dropped to less than once per month in the majority and participation became virtual alone in 62.3%. Trainee role changed to observing at 79.7% and a positive educational experience was reported in 59.4%. Barriers cited included 33.3% of trainees being turned away and 24.6% feeling unwelcome. 

Discussion: There is loss of the trainees’ educational experience of the MDT due to the pandemic. Trainees are attending fewer MDTs and a significant number feel unwelcome or are turned away. Barriers to learning include inadequate infrastructure and increased workload. During recovery, recognising importance of trainee participation in the MDT is vital and should be supported through technology support and simulated MDT training sessions.

Additional Information

This presentation was given at the SES 2022 online conference, January 2022.

For full article see Journal of Surgical Simulation 2022; 9: 42-48. https://doi.org/10.1102/2051-7726.2022.0006