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Terminal illness in an Indian setting: problems of communication
1Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Central Institute of Psychiatry, Kanke, Ranchi - 834 006.
Indian Journal of Psychiatry
|September 20, 2011
Summary
Many terminally ill cancer patients lack understanding of their diagnosis and prognosis, despite relatives being informed. Patient-doctor communication is frequently unsatisfactory, highlighting a critical gap in end-of-life care for cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Palliative Care
- Medical Communication
Background:
- Effective communication regarding diagnosis and prognosis is crucial for terminally ill patients.
- Previous studies in Western countries have explored patient understanding of end-of-life conditions.
- Gaps in patient-physician communication can significantly impact patient experience and decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the level of understanding of diagnosis and prognosis among terminally ill cancer patients.
- To evaluate patient satisfaction with communication from healthcare providers and family.
- To compare communication experiences between terminally ill and non-terminally ill patient groups.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 50 terminally ill cancer patients.
- Inclusion of a comparison group of non-terminal medically ill patients.
- Assessment of patient awareness regarding diagnosis, prognosis, and communication satisfaction.
Main Results:
- 52% of terminally ill cancer patients were uninformed about their diagnosis and prognosis.
- 82% of these patients were aware of their fatal prognosis.
- Most patients reported unsatisfactory communication with doctors and relatives.
- Significant differences were observed when compared to non-terminal patients.
Conclusions:
- A substantial number of terminally ill cancer patients lack adequate information about their condition.
- Patient-doctor communication in terminal illness requires significant improvement.
- Findings highlight disparities in information disclosure and communication effectiveness in end-of-life care.
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