An evaluation of factors that contribute to late referral of cancer patients by oncologists and doctors working in oncology to hospice services in the Western Cape

A survey was done in the City of Cape Town Health District to identify possible barriers and other factors that influence the referral of patients to hospice by oncologists. Factors that influenced referral of patients to hospice included lack of training of oncologists in palliative care, the view of the oncologist's individual role in the care of his patients as well as the ability to communicate comfortably with patients regarding end-of-life care. Reasons for non-referral included hospice not being available in the area or not accessible to patients, the perception of the doctor that he/she is giving up on the patient, previous dissatisfaction with service by hospice and not wanting to lose control of the treatment of the patient.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Public Health and Family Medicine

Year dc:date.issued

2011

Author dc:creator

• Swart, M Teresa

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Barnard, Alan J

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/10998

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/10998