title: An existential approach to oncology:  meeting the needs of our patients.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Patients with cancer face both physical and psychological challenges. In the past, oncologists often limited themselves to the medical aspects of cancer care and delegated psychosocial interventions to professionals from other disciplines. In this review, we explore the methods by which oncologists can expand their role in treating cancer patients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Recent studies have shown that individuals with cancer are not always satisfied with the care that they are receiving and believe that their existential needs are not being met. A model is suggested for improving the interaction between oncologists and their patients that involves focusing on the existential needs of an individual with cancer. Specific interventions and their appropriateness are discussed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Oncologists should consider expanding their role and involving themselves in the more holistic aspects of cancer care. As a result of the bonds that they develop with patients, these professionals often find themselves in a position of being able to help and counsel cancer patients who are coping with feelings of isolation, loneliness, and fear.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, Hadassah Mount Scopus Campus, Hadassah University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel. shwexler@gmail.com
authors.forename: Isaiah D
authors.initials: ID
authors.lastname: Wexler
authors.forename: Benjamin W
authors.initials: BW
authors.lastname: Corn
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000523:psychology*; D010819:Physician's Role; D029181:Spirituality