AWARENESS OF SITE SPECIFIC MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM TUMOR BOARDS AMONG FINAL YEAR PAKISTANI MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Abstract

Background

Multidisciplinary tumour boards are an integral component of cancer care in many countries. In developing countries like Pakistan these boards are in phase of establishment. Doctors will have to be more involved in making these boards meaningful.

Methods

A questionnaire was designed to assess awareness of final year medical students towards tumor boards. By convenience sampling 3 medical colleges were chosen. An investigator went to medical colleges and obtained informed consent.

Results

Awareness of MDT tumour board meetings is variable among colleges with awareness ranging from 73% being aware to 70% being not aware. Around 87% replied that they are willing to attend these meetings and when asked how often, the most common answer was “monthly”.

Conclusions

Awareness of tumour board meetings is variable among final year medical students. Willingness to participate in boards after becoming doctors is high. Offering CME credit for attendance may facilitate participation.

Keywords: tumour boards, multidisciplinary team, medical students, oncology, undergraduate medical education.