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Supportive Care in Cancer
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer 7/2007

01-07-2007 | Review Article

Reluctance to disclose difficult diagnoses: a narrative review comparing communication by psychiatrists and oncologists

Author: Alex J. Mitchell

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 7/2007

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Abstract

Introduction

National guidance in most medical specialties supports the full and open disclosure of diagnoses to patients.

Results

Surveys show that most patients want to know their diagnosis, whether it is medical or psychiatric, and a substantial proportion want to know detailed prognostic information. In the past, oncologists have been criticised for failing to reveal a diagnosis of cancer to patients in a sensitive and timely manner. Over the last 30 years, there is evidence that this practice has improved. Yet, clinicians still have difficulty when the diagnosis is not certain, when the prognosis is unfavourable, and when relatives request “not to tell.” All of these influences are present in mental health settings.

Discussion

Psychiatrists and general practitioners may be equally reluctant to reveal difficult diagnoses and prognoses of conditions such as schizophrenia and dementia. The reluctance to reveal a difficult diagnosis may be a routine, but little acknowledged the aspect of medical care that should be incorporated into undergraduate and postgraduate education and openly discussed during peer group supervision.
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Metadata
Title
Reluctance to disclose difficult diagnoses: a narrative review comparing communication by psychiatrists and oncologists
Author
Alex J. Mitchell
Publication date
01-07-2007
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 7/2007
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-007-0226-y

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