Name of the Procedure:

Scheduled Interdisciplinary Team Conference (Code: G0175)

• Common Name: Team Conference
• Medical Term: Scheduled Interdisciplinary Team Conference (minimum of three exclusive of patient care nursing staff) with patient present

Summary

A Scheduled Interdisciplinary Team Conference involves a formal meeting where multiple healthcare professionals (excluding patient care nursing staff) discuss the patient's medical status and care plan with the patient present. The goal is to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care by leveraging the expertise of various specialists.

Purpose

The conference aims to address complex medical conditions that require input from multiple specialties. It facilitates:

• Comprehensive evaluation of the patient's condition
• Development of a coordinated care plan
• Improved communication among care providers
• Enhanced patient understanding and involvement in their care

Indications

This procedure is indicated for patients with:

• Complex medical conditions or multiple comorbidities
• Chronic illnesses requiring multi-disciplinary management
• Conditions where treatment plans need coordinated input from various specialties
• Patient situations that would benefit from a unified approach to care

Preparation

Patients might need to:

• Prepare a list of current medications
• Provide a comprehensive medical history
• Complete any required diagnostic tests or assessments beforehand
• Arrange to bring a family member or caregiver for support

Procedure Description

1. Patient and specialist(s) preparation:

   • The patient arrives and is briefed on the meeting's structure.
   • The interdisciplinary team, typically three or more healthcare providers like doctors, therapists, social workers, gather relevant patient information.

2. Conference meeting:

   • Each specialist reviews the patient's medical history and current status.
   • Discussion follows, focusing on the patient's issues, treatment options, and care plan.
   • The patient is involved, ensuring they understand and agree with the care plan.

3. Documentation and follow-up:

   • A comprehensive summary of the conference is documented.
   • Necessary referrals or consultations are arranged.
   • Follow-up appointments or actions are scheduled.

Duration

The conference typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

Generally conducted in:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Specialized care centers

Personnel

• Physicians from relevant specialties (e.g., internal medicine, cardiology, orthopedics)
• Therapists (physical, occupational, speech)
• Social workers
• The patient and potentially their caregiver or family member

Risks and Complications

While the procedure itself is non-invasive, potential issues might include:

• Miscommunication or misunderstanding of the care plan
• Delays in implementing recommended treatments
• Emotional stress for the patient

Benefits

• Holistic and coordinated care from multiple specialists
• Improved treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction
• Enhanced understanding and adherence to the care plan by the patient

Recovery

Post-procedure, the patient should:

• Follow the newly established care plan
• Attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled
• Report any new symptoms or concerns to their healthcare providers
• Expect no physical recovery time, as it’s a non-invasive meeting

Alternatives

Alternatives include separate consultations with each specialist, though these lack the coordinated approach, potentially leading to fragmented care. In such cases:

• Pros: Individualized attention from each specialist.
• Cons: Potential for inconsistent treatment plans and higher time investment by the patient.

Patient Experience

During the conference:

• The patient actively participates in discussions about their health.
• They may feel a range of emotions from understanding to anxiety, depending on the information shared.
• Comfort measures include support from the healthcare team and possibly a family member or caregiver.

After the conference:

• The patient should feel more informed and supported regarding their care plan.
• Emotional and informational support follow post-meeting to address patient concerns.