Because a Patient with MND is likely to develop multiple symptoms impacting physical, psychological and social health and wellbeing during disease progression which will require expertise, knowledge and care provision from a wide range of different and appropriate health care providers to ensure best possible care for the patient,  improving patient and family member outcomes and experience. The patient should always be the main/central consideration in any MDT.

MND care requires a multidisciplinary team because the disease affects mobility, breathing, swallowing, communication, nutrition, psychological wellbeing, and social functioning—all of which need specialist expertise and coordinated support. MDTs ensure care is:

• Holistic

• Proactive

• Person-centred

• Consistent and well‑coordinated

Due to the nature of progression of symptoms as well MND requires an MDT approach that can manage decision making in a timely and proactive manner in order to avoid crisis situations. 

In my role as a hospice nurse I see patients and family members who have avoided advice or avoided accepting or discussing future likely care needs although this consideration has been supported and encouraged by nurses and other healthcare professionals involved, and this results in crisis situations where needs are then more difficult to meet.

An effective way to manage patient and family expectations around future likely considerations and making future plans and decisions early on would be very helpful. 

It is helpful to view Sandra's post as an OT, as this provides some insight into how other healthcare professionals see their role.