What is the role of an MLD practitioner in a multidisciplinary team?

• A. To diagnose systemic disease.
• B. To perform surgical procedures.
• C. To assess, plan, implement, monitor progress, and coordinate care with other professionals.
• D. To prescribe medications.

Answer: (C)

The role in a multidisciplinary team centers on collaborative, patient-focused care: the MLD practitioner assesses the edema and related factors, plans an appropriate lymph drainage strategy, implements the treatment, monitors progress, and coordinates with other professionals to keep the plan cohesive. This means evaluating swelling patterns, skin condition, mobility, and how the patient responds to therapy; developing a plan that includes manual lymph drainage sessions, a home program, and any adjunct therapies within their scope; carrying out the treatment and teaching the patient or caregiver; and tracking changes over time to adjust the approach as needed. They also act as a coordinator, communicating with doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and other team members to align goals, referrals, and follow-up.

This role does not involve diagnosing systemic disease, performing surgical procedures, or prescribing medications—those are outside the MLD practitioner’s scope and handled by other licensed professionals.