Virtual MDC Experience at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
UPMC conducts a weekly MDC to discuss care of head and neck cancer
patients. The MDT consists of providers from Otolaryngology-Head and
Neck Surgery, Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Neuroradiology,
Pathology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nursing, and Palliative and
Supportive Care. MDC was conducted primarily in person prior to the
COVID-19 pandemic. The conference was held in the Otolaryngology-Head
and Neck Surgery department conference room with an associated
teleconference line. Remote participants were able to join MDC via
teleconference but were not able to observe any of the imaging reviewed
during the conference.
During the present COVID-19 pandemic, MDC has been transitioned to a
remote, virtual format utilizing video teleconference via Microsoft
Teams. This format allows for both audio and video participation as well
as screensharing. Data shared through Microsoft Teams is secure, meeting
HIPAA compliance standards. In order to access the application, MDT
members must login via their institutional access; this prevents other
users from gaining access to the MDC. At the start of the meeting, the
neuroradiologist shares his or her screen, which allows attendees to
view radiological images that are reviewed during the conference. Screen
sharing of Microsoft PowerPoint slides also allows for brief
presentations on relevant clinical topics. MDC is organized by an
otolaryngology resident, who assembles the list of patients to be
presented at the conference. A preliminary list of patients is
distributed to the MDT at least 24 hours prior to MDC in order to allow
for providers to prepare for patient presentations. The organizer
distributes the final list to MDC participants and hosts the video
teleconference. Additionally, the chair of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck
Surgery helps to lead patient discussions. Notes summarizing the MDC
discussion and final recommendations are placed in each patient’s chart
at the conclusion of the conference.