Improving communication with cancer patients

Eur J Cancer. 1999 Oct;35(10):1415-22. doi: 10.1016/s0959-8049(99)00178-1.

Abstract

If doctors and nurses involved in cancer care are to help patients and their families achieve an optimal level of quality of life and psychological adjustment they must be able to carry out key communication tasks successfully. Yet, objective scrutiny of their consultations confirms that deficiencies in their ability to conduct these tasks remain. The reasons for this are discussed before important innovations in training and their impact are described.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Competence*
  • Communication Barriers
  • Communication*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Physician-Patient Relations*