Abstract
Background. Effective communication with cancer patients continues to be an elusive goal for health care professionals (HCPs) and cancer educators. Methods. We posted a survey on the ConversationsInCare.com Web site to collect information from oncology HCPs regarding attitudes, effectiveness, and specific patient communication skills. Results. The 291 respondents agreed that good communication enhances patient satisfaction (76%) and treatment compliance (88%). Only 34% of respondents felt comfortable discussing complementary or alternative therapies, and approximately half of all respondents felt they lack the skills to help patients maintain hope. Conclusions. Oncology HCPs believe that good communication is important and wish to improve their skills. Implications for cancer educators are discussed.
