Being diagnosed with a genitourinary (GU), or below-the-belt, cancer such as prostate, bladder, kidney, testicular or penile cancer can feel overwhelming. Knowing who is on your healthcare team may help you feel more confident and informed as you navigate treatment. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, a range of healthcare professionals may be involved in diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care. Together, they form a multidisciplinary team (MDT) that provides coordinated, patient-centred care.
Multidisciplinary team members may include:
General Practitioners (GPs) are often the first healthcare professionals people see when they have symptoms or health concerns. They play an important role in the detection of GU cancers, coordinating referrals to specialists, and providing ongoing support, follow-up care and management of symptoms throughout the cancer journey.
Urologists are doctors who specialise in conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive system. They investigate symptoms, arrange tests and biopsies, diagnose GU cancers, perform surgery and provide ongoing follow-up care.
Medical Oncologists are doctors who specialise in treating cancer with medicines such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies. These treatments may be used before or after surgery, or as a primary treatment for advanced cancer.
Radiation Oncologists are doctors who prescribe and oversee radiation treatment, which may be used instead of surgery, after surgery, alongside other treatments, or to help relieve symptoms.
Cancer Nurses are often a key point of contact for people with cancer and their families. They provide education and support, help coordinate care, assist with managing and monitoring side effects, and may administer cancer treatments.
Pathologists work behind the scenes to examine biopsies and tissue samples. Their findings are used to diagnose cancer and provide information about its type, grade and stage, which guides treatment decisions.
Radiologists and Nuclear Medicine Specialists interpret imaging tests such as CT, MRI, PET and bone scans. These scans help determine the location and extent of cancer, whether it has spread and how it is responding to treatment. Nuclear medicine specialists may also administer targeted radioactive treatments for certain cancers.
Allied Health Professionals play an important role in supporting physical, emotional and practical wellbeing. They may include:
- Physiotherapists, who can help maintain or restore strength and mobility, manage treatment-related side effects and support recovery.
- Psychologists and Counsellors, who support emotional wellbeing and help people manage the psychological and emotional impacts of cancer, including changes in relationships and intimacy.
- Social Workers, who can assist with practical, financial and family-related concerns, as well as connecting people with community support services.
- Sexual Health Specialists, who can help people with cancer and their partners navigate changes in sexual function, intimacy and relationships.
- Continence Nurses and Physiotherapists, who can provide support and strategies to manage bladder and bowel changes that may occur due to the cancer or its treatment.
- Pharmacists, who help ensure cancer treatments are used safely and effectively. They review prescriptions, prepare some cancer treatments, monitor for potential side effects and interactions, and provide advice about medications.
Clinical Trial and Research Staff, including trial coordinators, research nurses and investigators, support people who choose to take part in research studies and help ensure research is conducted safely, ethically and according to strict guidelines.
In summary, a GU cancer diagnosis often involves support from a range of healthcare professionals. While each member of the MDT has a different area of expertise, they work together to provide coordinated care tailored to the individual’s needs.