Avances en la comunicación médico-paciente en Cuidados Paliativos (I). Toma de decisiones. Ayudas prácticas en la comunicación

Cancer diagnosis implies in the patient several adverse events (bloody tests, aggressive treatments, changes in daily life). In this context, optimal communication between physicians and patients is essential. Communication is a vital step to suitably address the issues that are important in the patient's care. In recent years, there has been progresses in this area, resulting in better understanding of aspects that are important for a satisfactory communication. The authors review in this article the advances in the communication between the doctors and the patients with advanced cancer, such as decision-making, and the tools that can facilitate communication.