Discussion at an MDM is a core component of quality care (ASCO & ESMO 2006). All patients with a new diagnosis of breast cancer should be referred to an MDM for discussion. Ideally, the multidisciplinary team should discuss all newly diagnosed patients with breast cancer prior to surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Results of all relevant tests and imaging should be available for the MDM. To assist with the burden of demand, sites may streamline and prioritise the MDM discussion using agreed protocols. Patients should be offered a referral to a breast cancer nurse within seven days of a definitive diagnosis.

Patients may be discussed at several time points during their diagnosis and treatment. This can ensure patients are identified who may benefit from neoadjuvant systemic therapy, where surgical decisions are complex and in planning of reconstructive surgery and sequencing of therapies, or for relevant clinical trials.