When facing a cancer diagnosis, many patients assume one doctor will map out their care and treatment plan. But the most effective cancer care often comes from a team approach, one in which multiple specialists work together to review a case and make recommendations based on the latest research.

That’s the idea behind Nebraska Medicine’s multidisciplinary tumor boards, which bring together experts who specialize not just in cancer broadly, but also in specific types, such as lung, breast or genitourinary cancers. These teams combine the latest research, diverse clinical perspectives and deep, disease-specific expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes.

“We don’t just have broad cancer specialists,” explains Ann Yager, administrator for radiation oncology. “We have experts who specialize in unique disease areas. This allows us to bring highly focused knowledge to each case.”

Each tumor board meeting typically includes:

• Medical, surgical and radiation oncologists.
• Pathologists (who review tissue samples from biopsies).
• Radiologists (who interpret imaging).
• Genetic specialists.
• Dietitians.
• Nurse case managers.
• Residents and fellows (physicians getting specialty training).

These specialists review the patient’s test results, imaging and pathology reports, and then discuss treatment options based on the latest evidence, guidelines and available clinical trials. They share their recommendations with the patient’s primary oncologist, who reviews the options with the patient.

Together, they determine the best course of action based on the patient’s goals and preferences.

While not every case is reviewed, only complex or unusual ones go before the tumor board meeting. These boards are held regularly, covering areas such as:

• Brain and spine cancer.
• Breast cancer.
• Endocrine cancers, such as thyroid cancer.

“This model helps ensure patients receive truly personalized care delivered by experts who focus on one type of cancer rather than trying to know everything about every diagnosis,” Yager says.

The Nebraska Medicine tumor boards bring together specialists across multiple disciplines to review your case and build a treatment plan rooted in the latest research and collective expertise so you can move forward with confidence.