Humanization in oncology care: A necessary change

• DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2022.11.012
• Publication Date: 2022-12-09T12:35:02Z
• Authors: Kevin A. Diaz; Philippe E. Spiess; Herney Andrés Gar...
• Keywords: Dehumanization; SAFER; Rationing; Compassion fatigue

Developments in cancer care, automation of care, rationing of time and fragmentation of the work process for institutional imperatives can often lead to the dehumanization of care. Although, it is indisputable that these interventions have significantly improved outcomes in oncology, they may have caused the emotional needs of patients, families, and health professionals to be considered secondary concerns. Therefore, humanized care can help dispel the negative emotions associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment and may even contribute to improve patient outcomes. This empathetic and respectful approach to patients leads to increase patient expectations of recovery, accountability, control over their own health, satisfaction, safer care, patient happiness and healthcare professional resilience, resulting in time and cost savings. The humanization of care has emerged as a response to the needs and concerns of patients and their families that go beyond the biological.