Poster Presentation Clinical Oncology Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting 2024

Molecular Tumour Boards: The Australian Consortium Experience (#434)

Lama Karroum 1 , Sudi Shrestha 1 , Mark Shackleton 1 2 3 4 5 , Melissa C Southey 1 6 7
  1. MPCCC, Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium, Clayton, VIC, Australia
  2. Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Health, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
  3. Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
  4. Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
  5. Department of Clinical Pathology, The Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
  6. School of Translational Medicine , Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
  7. Department of Oncology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Introduction: The emergence of precision medicine has revolutionised oncology, particularly in cancer therapeutics, where comprehensive molecular sequencing data is utilised to tailor individualised treatments for patients. Molecular Tumour Boards (MTBs) are central to this approach, providing multidisciplinary forums for experts to analyse data and formulate personalised treatment plans. 

Impact of MTBs on Treatment Decisions: MTBs significantly impact treatment decisions by improving diagnostic accuracy, staging processes, and adherence to clinical guidelines. MPCCC Molecular Tumour Boards: The Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium (MPCCC) established its MTB series in 2018. The MTBs involve comprehensive reviews of molecular screening reports and evidence-based treatment recommendations. More recently, the MTBs at MPCCC have undergone a major operational change to enhance efficiency, impact, and reach guided by the Leavitt’s diamond model addressing process, people, and technology elements.

Operational Model Changes: Key changes include: Governance Structure: Implementing a robust governance framework with clear roles and streamlined communication to enhance decision-making. The MPCCC Fellows Network: A distinctive feature of the MPCCC MTBs is the Molecular Oncology and Pathology Fellows Network, promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange, offering real-time information on clinical trials and therapeutic options, improving communication among clinicians. MTB Operations Meetings: Preparatory meetings that precede MTBs to triage cases and connect clinicians with national and international cancer researchers. This MPCCC model of operation is unique in comparison to other MTB models from around the world, especially the experience of cancer consortiums and alliances, placing a strong emphasis on connection, equity of access and education. 

Conclusion: The MPCCC experience with MTBs exemplifies the transformative potential of multidisciplinary collaboration in precision oncology. By integrating Molecular Oncology and Pathology Fellows into the MTB framework, MPCCC fosters innovation, enhances clinical care, and drives advancements in cancer research. Continued investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and data sharing initiatives will maximise impact on patient outcomes.