Making decisions about cancer treatment

Abstract

Oncology, driven by new discoveries in pharmacology, technology and information technology, is advancing at an unprecedented rate. However, the most basic process that is at the core of applied oncology is the process of making efficient oncology decisions. Decision making influences the choice of available treatment, patient satisfaction and oncological outcome. The decision is multidisciplinary and is based on the knowledge, experience and personality of many experts who make up the dream team of the health organization they serve. The clinical decision-making process is the quintessence of daily clinical practice. Medical decision-making for cancer patients can be highly complex and multifaceted, involving diagnostic and therapeutic uncertainties, patient preferences and values, and certainly includes healthcare environment.