Jennifer S. Temel, MD of Mass General Hospital – Harvard Medical School discusses patient prognosis perception and how it impacts medical care and quality of life. The data clearly shows that patients make decisions based on how they understand their prognosis, especially for patients with advanced cancer. Understanding prognosis greatly impacts patients decisions about their medical care and of life. For example, if patients overestimate their chances of survival, they may end up choosing a more aggressive or intensive medical care and are less likely to initiate hospital services. It is important for patients to know that their time is limited or they may not choose the best personal choices like, cutting down their work hours or spend more time with their loved ones.
Patient Prognosis Perception Impacts Medical Care and Quality of Life
