Reasons Why Physicians Do Not Have Discussions About Poor Prognosis, Why It Matters, and What Can Be Improved

Abstract

At a time of controversy about a sick and aging population and fiscal constraint, honest communication about choices and outcomes represents an important solution. Yet evidence consistently shows that doctors are hesitant to divulge prognostic information. We have found several underlying misconceptions held by health care professionals. Much of this work has been done in the cancer population but applies across serious illnesses.