To determine the effect of an interdisciplinary approach to identify and address unmet need of patients (pts) with  central nervous system (CNS) cancers and their caregivers.

The Neurological Multidisciplinary Care Clinic (MdCC) at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center was a pilot study from 08/2017 to 06/2019 to foster a new model of care for complex pts with CNS cancers to identify and address their needs. Within a 3 hour single visit, a neurologist, nurse, physiatrist(RM), physical therapist, social worker(SW), case manager(CM), dietitian(RD), and chaplain(C)  rotated in to rooms to see patient/caregiver. Since 11/2017 participants completed validated surveys on unmet needs, financial strain, and home equipment prior to their visit and satisfaction surveys afterward. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze results.

Eighty-two pts with CNS cancers were seen: 40 were female, median age 59. Of these 82 pts, 66 had primary CNS cancers; predominantly high-grade glioma (79%). 56/82 pts were receiving cancer directed therapy. Over 60% had never seen a CM, RM, RD or C prior to MdCC. Seventy-eight pts (95%) received symptom management recommendations. Prognosis/coping with cancer was discussed with 75(91%) which increased signed health care proxy forms by 16% and DNR orders by 3% at the end of visit. New/updated physical therapy was ordered for 50 pts (61%); new equipment for 14(17%). Forty-nine pts completed a satisfaction survey; 96% were highly satisfied, and would recommend MdCC to others.

The presence of these providers allows for real time assessment of pts’/caregivers’ needs, their coping skills, discussing prognosis, assessing their support system and implementation of a safe pt's centered plan of care.