The disclosure of the diagnosis of cancer

Abstract

In summary, the consensus today is that full disclosure of the diagnosis of cancer to competent individuals (including children) is morally, ethically, legally, and therapeutically the appropriate policy. Unfortunately, this task is one that most physicians still find awkward, in part because of the continued de-emphasis of "soft" clinical skills in the medical education. Thus, doctors have little opportunity to address their own beliefs and emotions. By being cognizant of clinician unease and using well-described communication skills, however, disclosure can be satisfactorily accomplished. As American health care becomes increasingly ambulatory in nature, primary care physicians will have even more need to hone this skill.