Oncologists' Views and Communication Practices Regarding Unproven High-Cost Cancer Interventions in Private Medical...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Ethics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Public health insurance in Japan covers evidence-based care.
• High-cost private medical practices, termed 'X', offer advanced interventions lacking scientific evidence.
• These interventions raise ethical and clinical concerns, particularly in oncology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore oncologists' perceptions and responses to unproven private medical interventions (X).
• To inform the development of appropriate countermeasures against potentially exploitative practices.
• To assess the gap between oncologists' private evaluations and public communication regarding X.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was distributed to members of the Japanese Society of Medical Oncology (n=6273).
• Data were collected between April 24 and June 10, 2024.
• The survey assessed oncologists' evaluations of X, patient communication strategies, and personal preferences.

Main Results:

• A response rate of 13.2% (828 valid responses) was achieved.
• 63.4% of oncologists reported patient inquiries about X in the past year.
• 76.4% negatively evaluated X, with over 90% rating 7 of 9 items negatively, yet many maintained a neutral discussion stance.
• A significant gap exists between oncologists' private evaluations and their communication with patients.
• Most oncologists would not choose X for themselves, even without standard care options.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for transparent, evidence-based communication regarding unproven interventions (X).
• Enhancing dialogue supports informed patient decision-making and upholds the integrity of cancer care.
• Medical professionals must provide clear evaluations of X to protect patients and the public from potential exploitation.