Ethics in Oncology

Oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of cancerous tumors. Study includes determining causes, disease progression and properties of cancer. An oncologist is a physician specialist in the treatment of cancer. Oncology must follow a certain code of ethics in caring for cancer patients. Patients must have honest informative discussions with their oncologists when dealing with cancer.

Human Respect

• In the field of oncology maintaining human respect and the dignity of cancer patients must be kept in mind. This means doing all things in the best interest of the patient. For this reason, oncologists should stay knowledgeable and skilled to make any necessary improvement for their individual patients. For example, it may be in patient's best interest to end a certain treatment and begin a new one, or to place a patient in hospice instead of continuing care in a hospital setting.

Inform Patients

• Patients must stay informed of their condition, according to research outlined in the Holland-Frei Cancer Medicine, 6th edition. This includes informing patients of diagnosis, treatment plans and assisting patients with any other resources. The oncologist must be aware of the patient's limitations in receiving and understanding this information, and when necessary bring in family members or other personnel to help the patient. Oncologists must provide patients with X-rays or other images related to the cancer. They must honestly answer patient questions regarding costs, and avoiding billing arrangements that may mislead patients. An oncologist must not participate in any agreement that gives less-than-adequate care.

Confidentiality

• Confidentiality is key in the field of oncology. It ensures the oncologist is a privacy advocate for their patients, and it prevents lawsuits against the oncologist or health-care facility. Physicians must keep confidential any information patients may disclose to them during consultation or treatment meetings, unless required by law to protect the welfare of patient or community. Information cannot be shared with any outside source. This may include other doctors who are not on the oncology team.

Legal Obligation

• Oncology must follow all medical laws, keeping dignity and honor in the profession. If oncologists must provide testimony, it must always be correct and accurate. In the public light, oncologists cannot present themselves in an untruthful, misleading or deceptive manner. Oncology workers cannot be a part of harassing or unfair discriminating behavior.