DCIS and your treating team

The treatment of DCIS can be complex and you may need several specialists. In major treatment centres, these specialists will be part of a multidisciplinary team. The team meets regularly to discuss the best treatment options for you. 

Unfortunately, not everyone has access to a multidisciplinary team, especially if your treatment is in a rural or regional area.

What’s most important is that a range of appropriate specialists is involved in your care.

Who is in a multidisciplinary team

The people  you have in your multidisciplinary care team depends on:

•  your type of breast cancer
• the treatment and care you are having
• where you live (city, rural or remote).

The specialists involved in your treatment and care may include:

• breast surgeon – performs breast surgery
• radiologist – examines imaging such as mammograms, ultrasound and MRI
• pathologist – examines the cells/tissue removed from your breast to determine your diagnosis
• breast care nurse – provides ongoing information and support to you
• radiation oncologist – plans and manages radiotherapy treatment
• general practitioner (GP) – provides ongoing supportive care and referral to specialists.

You may also be referred to other health professionals if required. These may include:

• breast reconstructive/plastic surgeon – to restore the shape of the breast, particularly if you have a mastectomy (removal of the whole breast)
• physiotherapist – to help you with post-operative exercises
• social worker – for information about practical or financial assistance available to you
• counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist – for emotional support.

Why a multidisciplinary team is important

Bringing specialists together is important to treat DCIS. Your multidisciplinary team will meet regularly to discuss your treatment options.

Your breast surgeon will explain their findings to you.

Your breast care nurse is usually your main contact throughout your diagnosis and treatment.

If your team members are not based in the same place, which is common in rural areas, they may join meetings via video or phone.

Once you finish your treatment, your GP is an important part of your follow-up care. If you don’t already have a GP, now would be a good time to find one you feel comfortable with.