Abstract
Background: It is widely accepted that in CF best patient and family care should involve a well co-ordinated multidisciplinary service. However, the interdisciplinary effectiveness of the team, including the patient's perception of their team is rarely assessed.
Aims: We performed this study in order to evaluate the performance of our local CF MDT from an objective and patient perspective.
Methods: “On the spot” questionnaires were distributed to MDT members, who had worked with the unit for over one year. Questions were related to the knowledge of 15 randomly selected CF patients regarding their microbiology, FEV1, transplant status, social history, portacath, compliance issues and insulin therapy.
Results:
Table 1. Knowledge of MDT members about their patients
Questionnaires were simultaneously distributed to the same patients for anonymous completion requiring them to rank the MDT members according to perceived importance in their care and their relationship with each.
Table 2. Overall ranking by patients
Conclusions: Results confirmed CF patients often form close rapport with specialist nurses and associate Consultants with important decision making related to their care. Interestingly, doctors and CF nurses scored equally well in patient knowledge and only marginally above others. These results suggest an effectively functioning MDT whilst highlighting the often under-recognised value of individual specialities.
- © 2011 ERS
