Virtual Multidisciplinary Teams in Oncology and their Application in Pakistan: A Review

Abstract: The recent pandemic has led to the transition of multidisciplinary tumor boards (MTB) to the virtual domain. The shift enabled collaborations across geographical barriers, improving accessibility and efficiency, both administratively and clinically. For a low-middle income country (LMIC) like Pakistan, where MTBs are not prevalent due to resource limitations, Virtual multidisciplinary tumor boards (VMTBs) are an ideal solution. Aptly, the initiative, Tumor Board Establishment Facilitation Forum (TEFF) has successfully used VMTBs to fill this unfortunate clinical gap. Where VMTBs fulfill their role by providing clinical input, they also educate participants, allow physicians to resolve challenging cases, enable isolated clinics to receive input from tertiary care centers, and provide options for remote consultations and cross-border discussions. Although VMTBs may not provide the comfort of in-person engagement, and low levels of technological literacy present significant challenges, they have been proven to be as clinically efficient as in-person MTBs. If one is to consider all aspects, a well-rounded opinion would sit in favor of VMTBs, as evident during the recent pandemic. Keyword: Neoplasms, Patient Care Team, Telemedicine, Developing Countries, Health Literacy, Education, Medical.