[Managing oncological patients. It can also be done on an ambulatory basis]

A consequence of an increasing tendency to manage oncological patients on an outpatient basis is that, apart from the care-providing oncologist, family doctors are also being involved. Only with the aid of adequate supportive measures is it possible to ensure treatment of such patients with the more intensive forms of therapy as chemotherapy or combined radiochemotherapy within their social environment. In addition to enteral and parenteral nutrition adapted to individual requirements, differentiated pain control is of major importance. Side effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy often necessitate rapid intervention, and thus also short communication pathways between family doctor and oncologist. Joint efforts are also necessary when helping the patient cope with his/her disease.