ABSTRACT
In gynecologic oncology, patients face a frightening diagnosis and an uncertain future. It is increasingly recognized that patients wish to know their diagnosis and be kept informed of the progress of treatment. This has resulted in a revolution in the approach to patient–doctor communication. The era of professional paternalism, protecting patients from the diagnosis and remaining unrealistically optimistic to the dying patient, is over. With this change in approach has come a realization that effective communication skills are not innate, but can be taught, learned, retained, and used to improve patient care. More and more healthcare professionals, including gynecologic oncologists, are receiving training in communication with patients, their families, and other professionals. This increased communication with cancer patients has costs to healthcare professionals, which need to be appreciated and addressed. The improved communication brings healthcare professionals closer to the patient and may increase feelings of inadequacy when faced with unsolvable issues, and of failure when patients die. Gynecological oncologists dealing with dying patients and their families risk “burnout.” Although the medical profession is notoriously resistant to external help, a team spirit, adequate training through communication workshops, and peer support are important elements in tackling this problem.
