[Patient education and informed consent in hemato-oncology--limits and problems from the physician's viewpoint]

Patients' information implies a complex communication process and includes more than simply giving neutral information about cancer and therapy. The goal of shared decision-making is based on the therapeutic relationship, which is rooted in the trust between doctor and patient. At the beginning of the conversation it seems paramount to optimise the setting, consisting of sufficient time, suitable space and empathy. The information should be phase-adapted and patient-centered to arrive at an informed consent about a therapeutic perspective. It seems wrong to give a plain diagnosis without therapeutic options. If possible, the next of kin should be included in the accompaniment.