Who are the professionals helping my child?
A team of specialists will plan the treatment they feel is best for your child’s condition. This multidisciplinary team (MDT) is led by a consultant paediatric oncologist/haematologist who specialises in the treatment of cancer or leukaemia and may also include other allied professionals such as a psychologist, occupational therapist, physiotherapist and social worker.
All the staff involved are specialists in their field, many with an international reputation for their work, and they work together to ensure that there is a consistent and coordinated approach to your child’s treatment and care. Many of them will be CCLG members who receive regular updates on the latest research and trial information within children’s cancer.
The MDT may include:
- a paediatric oncologist (children’s cancer specialist)
- a paediatric haematologist (children’s specialist in blood disorders)
- a clinical oncologist (radiotherapy and chemotherapy specialist)
- a paediatric surgeon
- a radiographer
- a nurse specialist
- a pharmacist
- a dietitian.
The MDT at your principal treatment centre meets on a weekly basis to discuss newly-diagnosed children, treatment options, clinical trials and any situation where people may be having problems or need extra support. These healthcare professionals use their expertise to work together to provide treatment and support for children and young people with cancer.
This information was written by the Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG)
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