Virtual multidisciplinary teams for cancer care.

A recent report on cancer services in Wales recommended an integrated cancer service. The proposed model was difficult to introduce in rural areas, where health-care sites and staff are far apart. Videoconferencing equipment was installed in the Singleton Hospital, Swansea, and the Bronglais General Hospital, Aberystwyth, 120 km away. During the first year, 42 videoconferencing multidisciplinary team meetings were held using ISDN at 384 kbit/s. A total of 202 cases were reviewed. The cancers were colorectal, breast and lung. There was only one aborted session, which was due to an ISDN line fault. The average attendance at the meetings was 15 staff, of whom eight were essential team members. Regular multidisciplinary team meetings reduced the need for patients to travel. They also increased access to expert opinion and reduced the delay in implementing treatment.