What is a multidisciplinary team (MDT)?
You’re probably familiar with Parkinson’s nurses and neurologists. But did you know that there’s a whole team of other professionals who may be able to help you manage your symptoms?
Everyone’s experience of Parkinson’s is different.
Getting the right care from health professionals after diagnosis is important to make sure your symptoms are managed well, right from the start.
But Parkinson’s is complex and can change over time. So it’s also important to get support as your symptoms change and your Parkinson’s progresses.
That might include help from:
- physiotherapists
- speech and language therapists
- mental health professionals
- occupational therapists.
How can I get an appointment?
Your GP, specialist, or Parkinson’s nurse can refer you to a health professional and explain how they can help.
In some parts of the UK, you might be able to refer yourself. If you’re unsure, ask about this at your next appointment.
You are entitled to the right care from health professionals. But getting access to this can be frustrating or difficult. There may be long NHS waiting lists, or you might live somewhere where services aren’t available.
Sometimes it can be tricky to know what help you should be getting in the first place.
You’re not alone
If you’re unsure about what healthcare or support you need, or you’ve faced problems accessing it, we can help.
Sometimes, a team of health professionals will work together to plan the treatment that is best for you. This is called a multidisciplinary team, or MDT for short.
You’re at the centre of this team, and your treatment should be tailored to your specific needs.
Not everyone will have an MDT. This depends on how your symptoms affect you, and what services are available in your area.
I have had access to exercise groups, physiotherapy, speech therapy, a dietitian and aqua therapy. Occupational therapists have provided me with all sorts of aids like grab rails (indoors and out), a neck brace, a waking frame and more recently an automated reclining chair.
How Parkinson's UK can help
Whether you have Parkinson’s, or someone close to you does, our friendly expert advisers can talk to you about:
- which health professionals can help
- the type of healthcare and support you should be getting
- what to do if you’re having problems accessing healthcare in your area.
Call our helpline on 0808 800 0303 or email [email protected]
Or order free printed information from our online shop or by calling 0333 0030 523.