Coordinating cancer care using a weekly patient-oriented conference.
A patient-oriented conference is described that has been successfully used to help coordinate a multidisciplinary approach to cancer. The conference is devoted to concerns of a nonmedical nature and attempts to address these issues directly in the context of a total care plan. The group must realize that similar patient-related problems will occur again and again. The conference attempts to develop a system by which needs of patients are recognized so that the responsibilities of the various care givers can be efficiently and effectively integrated into a quality product. The conference provides a process for continuous feedback by patients and staff members into the system. It can improve the overall quality of care and by direct association can improve the quality of life of the patient. It can make caring for cancer patients more satisfying, both professionally and personally.
Sugarbaker
P H
PH
Winship Clinic and Cancer Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322.
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003142:Communication; D003256:Community Participation; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000379:methods*; D010348:Patient Care Team