Second Opinions, Real-Time Care: How Multidisciplinary Teams Transform Patient Care at Spencer Cancer Center

Every two weeks, a team of oncologists, surgeons, social workers, radiologists, pathologists and countless other specialists gather in person at the Spencer Cancer Center—or online—to review complex cancer cases and develop the most effective, comprehensive treatment plans for patients.

These meetings, called multidisciplinary cancer conferences, play an essential role at the Spencer Cancer Center. Each person at the meeting provides insight that can be used to identify how to best align care with a patient’s unique circumstances and needs. 

“Cancer conference is a unique time when multiple specialists can be in the same room at the same time, discussing real cases in real time,” said Brandon Johnson, M.D., medical director of the Spencer Cancer Center. “It gives us the opportunity to gain multiple ‘second’ opinions at once and have real time dialogue on patients with cancer.”

What makes these meetings extraordinary is the depth of detail and technology involved. This level of precision helps physicians target treatment more effectively, minimize complications and anticipate outcomes with confidence.

“Many people don’t realize how much cutting-edge technology is incorporated into these discussions,” said Sheila Sumter-Grant, the Cancer Registry manager at the SCC. 

“Surgical specimens are captured digitally, allowing us to show very precise tissue ‘staining’ and pathology details. Radiologic imaging is displayed in real time—often in 2D with exact tumor positioning and measurements—which gives physicians a clearer view of the disease.”

The process begins days before the meeting. Physicians select cases that require extra attention—often those with unusual presentations or complex treatment decisions. Pathologists and radiologists review all pathology and imaging, even from outside facilities, to confirm accuracy. 

“While we focus on patients with unique cases, we also discuss more routine cases to make sure we are all up-to-date and practicing the best evidenced-based medicine,” Johnson said.

During the conference, the case unfolds piece by piece: pathology slides, imaging scans, historical data, and clinical notes. Each specialist weighs in, offering insights shaped by years of experience and the latest research. By the end, the group reaches a consensus—a plan that is evidence-based, comprehensive, and tailored to the patient.

“It’s always enlightening for everyone to see the radiologic images, the pathologic images, and hear how the patient is doing,” said Johnson. “Then we can make the best decision about how to proceed with treatment.  With cancer conference, the patient gets the benefit of multiple physicians without the trouble of going to multiple appointments.”

Beyond the clinical team, the Spencer Cancer Center’s geneticist, clinical trial nurse, and social worker play an important role as well. They help identify hereditary risks, potential research studies, and socioeconomic resources that could benefit the patient and support quality of life.

For patients, that means confidence that their care plan is not only the best available but also crafted with compassion and precision. For providers, it’s a chance to collaborate, challenge assumptions, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in cancer care.

“It truly ensures that each patient receives a well-rounded, personalized plan informed by the latest knowledge in cancer care,” said Sumter-Grant. 

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About East Alabama Health

East Alabama Health encompasses East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, EAMC-Lanier Rural Emergency Hospital in Valley, East Alabama Medical Center North, the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, the Auburn Medical Pavilion and a host of other key medical clinics and practices that help provide a continuum of care to patients throughout an 11-county area. EAMC is a 316-bed regional referral hospital. EAMC-Lanier Rural Emergency Hospital provides emergency and outpatient services while its campus also features a nursing home and an ambulatory surgery center. East Alabama Health employs about 3,800 people and is the second largest employer in the region, trailing only Auburn University.