Although one physician typically manages a cancer patient's care, treatment plans result from a coordinated effort between several medical specialists. At Sutter Cancer Centers, patients with complex solid tumor and blood-related cancers receive concentrated attention from Sutter Cancer Center doctors representing multiple specialties who meet to review and evaluate individual patient cases. Patient cases may appear before a general Consultative Tumor Conference or a specific conference for pediatric, brain, lung or breast cancers, or treatment with Gamma Knife® Radiosurgery. In each conference, the multidisciplinary panel of cancer specialists analyzes X-rays, scans and pathology reports before discussing treatment options, which include clinical trials for many patients. The interactive, open-discussion format provides an opportunity for experts to share multiple perspectives and combine their education and experience in treating cancer. Referring primary care physicians are encouraged to attend the conference.

After the conference, the patient's physician meets individually with each patient to go over a report of the information discussed at this meeting and explain the suggested treatment options. Working with the patient and the patient's physician, the doctors determine a treatment plan that outlines each step and helps the patient understand and feel comfortable with what to expect.