Early Palliative Care for Patients with Metastatic Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Synopsis:

This recent article from the New England Journal of Medicine was the basis for the August 20, 2010 article in the New York Times (see related resources below) on the proven effectiveness of palliative care in determining length and quality of life in patients with metastatic lung cancer.

“The quality of care and the use of medical services for seriously ill patients are key elements in the ongoing debate over reform of the U.S. health care system.1 Oncologic care is central to this debate, largely because anticancer treatments are often intensive and costly.2 Comprehensive oncologic services for patients with metastatic disease would ideally improve the patients’ quality of life and facilitate the efficient allocation of medical resources. Palliative care, with its focus on management of symptoms, psychosocial support, and assistance with decision making, has the potential to improve the quality of care and reduce the use of medical services…”

Source:

The New England Journal of Medicine

Vol/Page/Date:

N Engl J Med 2010; 363:733-742August 19, 2010

Resource Type:

Journal Article

Author/Source:

Jennifer S. Temel, M.D. et al