Integrating evidence-based communication principles into routine cancer care Journal Article


Authors: Rosa, W. E.; Levoy, K.; Doyon, K.; McDarby, M.; Ferrell, B. R.; Parker, P. A.; Sanders, J. J.; Epstein, A. S.; Sullivan, D. R.; Rosenberg, A. R.
Article Title: Integrating evidence-based communication principles into routine cancer care
Abstract: Purpose: The global incidence of cancer and available cancer-directed therapy options is increasing rapidly, presenting patients and clinicians with more complex treatment decisions than ever before. Despite the dissemination of evidence-based communication training tools and programs, clinicians cite barriers to employing effective communication in cancer care (e.g., discomfort of sharing serious news, concern about resource constraints to meet stated needs). We present two composite cases with significant communication challenges to guide clinicians through an application of evidence-based approaches to achieve quality communication. Methods: Composite cases, communication skills blueprint, and visual conceptualization. Results: High-stakes circumstances in each case are described, including end-of-life planning, advanced pediatric illness, strong emotions, and health inequities. Three overarching communication approaches are discussed: (1) content selection and delivery; (2) rapport development; and (3) empathic connection. The key takeaways following each case provide succinct summaries of challenges encountered and approaches used. A communication blueprint from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Communication Skills Training Program and Research Laboratory has been adapted and is comprised of strategies, skills, process tasks, and sample talking points. A visually concise tool — the Communication Blueprint Traffic Circle — illustrates these concepts and demonstrates the iterative, holistic, and agile considerations inherent to effective communication. Conclusion: Evidence-based communication is foundational to person-centeredness, associated with improved clinician and patient/caregiver outcomes, and can be integrated throughout routine oncology care. When used by clinicians, evidence-based communication can improve patient and caregiver experiences and assist in ensuring goal-concordant cancer care delivery. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
Keywords: child; advanced cancer; treatment planning; neoplasm; neoplasms; cancer palliative therapy; palliative care; evidence based practice; cancer therapy; childhood cancer; health care quality; social support; cancer center; medical information; death; medical education; communication; empathy; communication skills training; communication skill; emotion; interpersonal communication; coping behavior; terminal care; emotions; health care delivery; health communication; health disparity; comprehension; pediatrics; evidence based practice center; supportive care; shared decision making; trust; health disparities; advance care planning; holistic care; concept formation; humans; human; article
Journal Title: Supportive Care in Cancer
Volume: 31
Issue: 10
ISSN: 0941-4355
Publisher: Springer Verlag  
Date Published: 2023-10-01
Start Page: 566
Language: English
DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08020-x
PUBMED: 37682354
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC10805358
DOI/URL:
Notes: The MSK Cancer Center Support Grant (P30 CA008748) is acknowledged in the PDF. Corresponding MSK author is William E. Rosa -- Source: Scopus
Altmetric
Citation Impact
BMJ Impact Analytics
MSK Authors
  1. Andrew Saul Epstein
    159 Epstein
  2. Patricia Ann Parker
    91 Parker
  3. William   Rosa
    210 Rosa
  4. Meghan Mcdarby
    29 Mcdarby