Myassa Kjaerem
Senior Global Medical Advisor, MD. PhD.
Patient safety is a fundamental priority in healthcare, centered on protecting patients from harm and ensuring that care is delivered in the safest possible way. It involves not only preventing errors but also fostering a culture of compassion and open, continuous communication between healthcare professionals and patients, especially in an era where health information often originates from various, sometimes unreliable sources.
In cancer care, the need for patient safety becomes even more critical due to the complex nature of treatments, which often involve chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or targeted therapies. These interventions can be associated with severe side effects, and cancer patients are often more vulnerable to complications, such as infections or adverse medication reactions, which can lead to treatment delays or even hospitalizations.
The Role of Healthcare Teams
In such a context, patient safety isn’t just about physical well-being. It is about ensuring that patients and their families feel emotionally supported and well-informed throughout their treatment journey. Oncologists, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals must collaborate closely to provide optimal care and make sure that every step of the treatment is coordinated. This includes timely communication about the risks and benefits of treatments, side effect management, and a focus on the emotional impact of the diagnosis and treatment.
For example, research published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology shows that up to 30% of cancer patients experience treatment-related adverse effects, which could include anything from nausea and fatigue to more severe complications . However, studies have also demonstrated that patients who receive consistent emotional support and clear communication from their healthcare providers are more likely to adhere to their treatment plans and experience better outcomes. A 2020 study from Psycho-Oncology highlighted that emotional well-being directly impacts patients' adherence to treatment, with those receiving psychosocial support reporting improved health outcomes .
Supporting the Patient's Journey
Beyond medical expertise, reassurance and support play a vital role in making patients feel safe. Cancer is not only a physical battle but also a mental and emotional journey that affects patients and their families. Clear, compassionate communication can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of trust between patients and their healthcare providers.
Healthcare teams can enhance patient safety by fostering an environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and voicing their concerns. According to a 2022 survey published in Cancer Management and Research, over 40% of cancer patients felt uncertain about aspects of their treatment, emphasizing the importance of transparency and open dialogue . In addition, continuous education on new treatments and safety protocols helps alleviate patients' concerns and strengthen the patient-provider relationship.
Continuous Learning and Patient-Centered Care
Patient safety is a constantly evolving goal in healthcare. New research, technologies, and treatment methods continuously inform best practices. Healthcare professionals must stay updated and engaged in lifelong learning to provide the safest care possible. In cancer treatment, this means not only keeping up with new medical advances but also ensuring that care is individualized, patient-centered, and holistic.
The future of cancer treatment lies in personalized care, where safety extends beyond the avoidance of harm to encompass every aspect of the patient experience—physical, emotional, and psychological. It is about treating patients as partners in their care, fostering an environment of mutual respect and trust.