A Patient-Centric, Coordinated Care Model for Rare Diseases: The Multidisciplinary Consultation Program at Peking Union Medical College Hospital

SummaryRare diseases pose a significant challenge globally, affecting approximately 10% of the population. The unmet health care needs of patients and their families, including delayed diagnoses and difficulties in accessing specialized medical care, underscore the imperative for a coordinated and patient-centric approach to rare disease management. In this study, the authors sought to enhance patient outcomes and reduce throughput time for individuals affected by rare diseases or undiagnosed conditions. Consequently, they implemented a patient-centric, coordinated care model at Peking Union Medical College Hospital, the Multidisciplinary Team Consultation Program (MDTCP), which streamlines the complex diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that are essential for these patients. Findings revealed that the MDTCP facilitated more interactions between different disciplines, promoting effective communication and discussion of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with rare diseases.