Palliative Care in Gynecologic Oncology

Mary M Mullen; James C Cripe; Premal H Thaker

doi:10.1016/j.ogc.2018.10.001

Palliative Care in Gynecologic Oncology

Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2019 Mar;46(1):179-197. doi: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.10.001.

Authors

Mary M Mullen¹, James C Cripe¹, Premal H Thaker²

Affiliations

¹ Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, 660 South Euclid Avenue, Mail Stop 8064-37-905, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
² Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, 660 South Euclid Avenue, Mail Stop 8064-37-905, St Louis, MO 63110, USA. Electronic address: thakerp@wustl.edu.

PMID: 30683263
DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.10.001

Abstract

The integration of palliative care and hospice into standard gynecologic oncology care is associated with cost-savings, longer survival, lower symptom burden, and better quality of life for patients and caregivers. Consequently, this comprehensive approach is formally recognized and endorsed by the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. This article reviews the background, benefits, barriers, and most practical delivery models of palliative care. It also discusses management of common symptoms experienced by gynecologic oncology patients.

Keywords: End-of-life symptom management; Palliative care; Palliative care barriers; Palliative care economics.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Continuity of Patient Care / economics
Continuity of Patient Care / standards*
Female
Genital Neoplasms, Female / mortality
Genital Neoplasms, Female / therapy*
Humans
Palliative Care / economics
Palliative Care / standards*
Patient Transfer / economics
Patient Transfer / standards*
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Quality of Health Care
Quality of Life
Terminally Ill*