National Health Service, Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS) has determined for Colorectal Cancer Care Services in Scotland that there should be a weekly colorectal cancer multidisciplinary team meeting (CRC MDTM) at which all patients are to be discussed. The aim of this presentation is to explain how the weekly CRC MDTM has been set up and functions in the University Teaching Hospital of Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (ARI) with video links to a District General Hospital in Elgin, plus Remote and Rural Hospitals in the Orkney and Shetland Islands.

The entry point to the CRC MDTM system is the histological or radiological diagnosis of CRC. To facilitate input and data confirmation we have established a completely electronic GP referral system for suspected CRC and Screening cases. We have an electronic Colonoscopy (UNISOFT) and Operation note reporting system (CCPD). The PACS System is used for all x-rays and Imaging. Disciplines for the CRC MDTM such as tattooing of lesions at colonoscopy and MDTM Proforma layout and content are agreed at prior CRC Focus Group meetings. In 2009 we processed 1206 cases through our CRC MDTM.

This system has allowed us to co-ordinate Colorectal Cancer care within the QIS guidelines, it also allows us to view the patient’s Pathway of care at all times.

The CRC MDTM template has been adapted for other Cancer MDTMS’, for local, regional and national discussion / Pathway care, covering 8,000 patients in 2009.

The MDTM system, set up costs and initial 3 years maintenance was funded by North East Scotland Cancer Co-ordinating and Advisory Group.

* Cancer Pathways Facilitator, North East Scotland Cancer Co-ordinating and Advisory Group. (NESCCAG)
‡ MDTM Co-ordinator.
† Consultant Colorectal Surgeon. Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.

We wish to acknowledge all the contributions by the Consultant Surgeons, GI Physicians, Oncologists, Radiologists and Pathologists.