open access: JCO - Art of Oncology - Oncodoxes

Oncodoxes

 "Those outside the field of oncology might think that dealing with cancer and all the suffering and death it entails would be what wears us down. That is of course to some degree the case. However, we are trained not only to make patients better but also to deliver bad news, to alleviate suffering, and to help the dying. And having developed an interest in palliative care along with oncology, I find it can be immensely rewarding guiding patients and families through those difficult times. 

Furthermore, one of the most surprising perspectives gained by medical students and residents rotating in the outpatient oncology setting is how well a majority of patients I see in a day in the office seem.......

"Be Optimistic/Be Honest

Patients come to their physicians seeking help and hope. Educating patients and their families about their diagnosis and prognosis is certainly one of our most important responsibilities. The issue is not whether to tell the truth—we would not intentionally lie to patients. The quandary is how to tell it, how much to tell, and when to do so....."