Virtual Tumor Board Program
June 14, 2015
A virtual tumor board (VTB) program is a telemedicine program that is becoming more popular in healthcare. The use of an encrypted video conferencing platform allows providers within the community, or even throughout the world, to participate in discussing cancer patient cases. The participants, whether in person or remote, can visually see the radiology images as well as the pathology slide presentation and hear and engage in the discussions. This video conferencing platform increases convenience for providers, eliminating travel time to a central location. Providers can consult with renowned colleagues off-site, expanding the expertise available to determine patient care. Coordination of care for patients requiring multidisciplinary care is facilitated, shortening evaluation time prior to definitive treatment plan.A successful VTB program is far more than the implementation of technology. While each organization identifies its own success criteria, it is generally accepted that a VTB is successful when it has a high perceived value to participants and is an integral part of the routine healthcare process.
The foundations for developing a successful VTB program include an operational plan that specifically documents the organization’s activities for achieving the telemedicine services including:
VTB Meeting Governance
Moderator
Presenter
Monitoring attendance
Group engagement and interactions
VTB Supporting Processes
Policies and Procedures
Case submission, case presentation, and encounter documentation
Security and access to VTB
Equipment and connectivity requirements
Scheduling, inviting and e-reminders
Training program and material
Video etiquette
Telemedicine patient consent form (if patient participates)
Recording, archiving and secure access of the VTB
CME credit (if credit is given)
Other Key Processes
Marketing / Communication to physicians, patients and the community
Reimbursement for VTB Services (if seeking reimbursement)
Success Factors and Metrics
Supporting Staff and Roles
Optimizing the VTB Experience
