Palliative care in gynecologic oncology: a narrative review of current literature and vision for the future

Abstract

Background and objective: Several professional societies have recommended incorporating palliative care into routine oncology care, yet palliative care remains underutilized among women with gynecologic cancers. This narrative review highlights current evidence regarding utilization of palliative care in gynecologic oncology care. Additionally, the authors offer recommendations to increase early integration and utilization of palliative care services, improve education for current and future gynecologic oncology providers, and expand the palliative care workforce.

Methods: The authors reviewed studies of palliative care interventions in oncology settings, with an emphasis on studies that included women with gynecologic malignancies. A panel of author/experts were gathered for a semi-structured interview to discuss the future of palliative care in gynecologic cancer care. The interview was recorded and reviewed to highlight themes.

Key content and findings: Data supports routine integration of palliative care into gynecologic oncology practice. To expand delivery of palliative care, additional research that investigates implementation of palliative care across different healthcare settings is needed. There is a shortage of palliative care providers in the United States. Therefore, it is critical for gynecologic oncologists to receive a robust education in primary palliative care skillsets. Additionally, to expand the specialty palliative care workforce, palliative medicine leaders should recruit more gynecologic oncologists and other surgeons into palliative care fellowship programs.

Conclusions: Expanded utilization of palliative care offers an opportunity to improve quality of care and outcomes for women with gynecologic cancers.

Keywords: Gynecologic oncology; palliative care; surgical education.