ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the Chinese clinicians and patients’ views towards end-of-life (EOL) conversation. EOL has been well explored in the English-speaking literature but rarely explored in the East. In Asia, significant differences in beliefs and practices with EOL care exist when comparing with the West. For examples, Chinese philosophies shape the perception of good death, families being reluctant to discuss EOL issues, clinicians are hesitant to disclose prognosis to dying patients. More studies have shown that prevailing cultural influences have led to lack of recognition on the need for effective communication about serious terminal illness in Asia. This chapter discusses the differences and similarities of clinicians and patients’ views towards EOL. It summarises the major findings from the local studies and reports interview data conducted with local oncologists and relevant stakeholders in exploring the culturally appropriate model for EOL communication in Chinese context.
