Cancer is often a devastating diagnosis that has a profound impact on a patient’s physical health and emotional, social, and psychological well-being. A cancer diagnosis evokes fear of death or uncertainty, leading to overwhelming anxiety in the patient and family. This is shown in the form of shock, disbelief, sadness, anger, or a sense of helplessness due to a lack of control over their future.
Usually, this is followed by physical challenges the patient faces with the treatment, be it surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. The physical challenges following treatment can include side effects, pain, or a decrease in overall quality of life. Other stressful factors include treatment costs and social relations. Cancer treatment is expensive and can be a significant financial burden, especially if one does not have health coverage. Similarly, cancer treatment can be of long duration and can strain even the closest bonds in family and friendships due to lifestyle disruption or social stigma. Most of these challenges lead the patient to self-isolation and uncertainty.
Professionalism in cancer care is not just about medical expertise; it should also address the physical and psychosocial aspects. Apart from clinical excellence in cancer care, the doctor should exhibit compassion and empathy. Most healthcare providers, including specialist doctors and nurses, possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to diagnose and treat cancer effectively. They follow evidence-based practices, which are crucial for providing the most effective and appropriate care.
In addition to clinical expertise, it is important for the clinician to understand the patient’s perspectives. This can be achieved by actively listening to the patient’s concerns and addressing them with sensitivity and respect. The clinician should respect the patient’s autonomy in treatment decisions and preferences while maintaining privacy and confidentiality at all times. Clear and honest communication with the patient and their family is vital throughout the treatment journey. Treating all patients with dignity and respect is essential, regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
The clinician must consider whether the treatment is covered by insurance or if it is an out-of-pocket expense. Long-term financial planning must be discussed with the patient and their family so that necessary budgeting can be done. Based on the patient’s financial and social background, the clinician should provide holistic care and avoid prescribing costly medicines or unnecessary tests. It is often said that a “hungry physician is apt to prescribe more.” The clinician should always be mindful of the financial burden that medical treatment can impose.
Unfortunately, some clinicians may have personal financial gains from prescribing costly medicines or unnecessary tests. Ordering excessive tests can occur for multiple reasons, including fear of malpractice claims. However, a few clinicians may have financial motives, writing more tests or medications to increase their income or earn bonuses. Clinicians should not prioritize financial gain over patient care by prescribing unnecessary procedures solely to increase revenue. Kickbacks, referrals, or other incentives for serving patients are unethical and akin to accepting a bribe.
The psychology of clinicians who prioritize financial gain over patient care is often driven by greed or materialism. A lack of ethical principles may lead them to succumb to financial incentives. Some even justify their actions by rationalizing the situation rather than considering ethical obligations. In some cases, clinicians may convince patients and families that new medicines may work wonders, despite the financial burden of treatment, where costs sometimes outweigh health benefits. Patients and their families should be empowered with information regarding treatment options and associated costs. It should not be a case where “treatment snatches away wealth more than it restores health.”
So, what should the patient do? To be an informed patient, one should research their medical condition and potential treatment options before each appointment. If there are concerns about the treatment plan or costs, seeking a second opinion from another qualified healthcare provider is advisable. Keeping detailed treatment records is also crucial. If a doctor appears rushed or dismissive of concerns, it could be a red flag, signaling the need to find a new care provider.
Families should also be aware that if a doctor engages in malpractice or unethical behavior, they can file a complaint with the relevant regulatory authorities or medical board. It is also the responsibility of fellow doctors to report incompetent or unethical behavior among colleagues. Identifying unethical clinicians can be challenging, but taking steps to ensure the highest quality patient care is essential.
Some doctors may attempt to evade accountability for malpractice through manipulative counseling techniques or falsifying medical records to prevent families from pursuing legal action. They may even conspire with other professionals to create a false narrative or conceal evidence of malpractice. If malpractice is suspected, seeking legal counsel is crucial.
Many factors influence a doctor’s decision-making process, including patient needs, clinical guidelines, and ethical principles. However, by prioritizing professionalism, healthcare providers can significantly improve the lives of cancer patients and their families. Good governance from hospitals is essential to help patients navigate the challenges of cancer treatment with dignity, hope, and resilience.