I am a hematologist in Sweden and there is no denying many patients are treated too long. Number 1 reason is usually that the patient wishes it. However, this is mostly a consequence that the patient overestimates the benefits of a late chemo course or underestimates the side effects. Fear of dying and wishes of the relatives also contribute. Unfortunately, for many physicians it is easier to offer another treatment than having a difficult conversation about dying
alexfrommalmoe t1_j4w0h9r wrote
Reply to Family Dynamics and Doctors' Emotions Drive Useless End-of-Life Care. Surveys repeatedly indicate that nearly all people would rather die peacefully at home, yet painful, long-shot treatments remain common, and efforts to reduce usage have failed by Wagamaga
I am a hematologist in Sweden and there is no denying many patients are treated too long. Number 1 reason is usually that the patient wishes it. However, this is mostly a consequence that the patient overestimates the benefits of a late chemo course or underestimates the side effects. Fear of dying and wishes of the relatives also contribute. Unfortunately, for many physicians it is easier to offer another treatment than having a difficult conversation about dying