The multidisciplinary team meeting: how to be an effective participant

Pathologists are core members of multidisciplinary teams delivering cancer care. Regular team meetings at which pathological data are presented now form a significant component of consultant job plans and exposure to such meetings is an important part of the trainee histopathologist’s curriculum. In this article the pathologist’s role is reviewed, together with guidance on the preparation of material and its presentation within the multidisciplinary team meeting (MDTM). Videoconferencing is being increasingly used to improve communication between cancer units and centres in the most time efficient manner. Its integration within the MDTM requires the acquisition of additional skills if meetings are to successfully meet their objectives. The technology is discussed with guidance on how to maximize its effectiveness.