De blinde vlek in de oncologische zorg

This article explores what highquality oncological care requires when cure is no longer possible. As the focus shifts toward quality of life, with or without active antitumor therapy, patients typically receive structured information when treatment is initiated, but far less explicit information when treatment is withheld.

The absence of systematic discussion about symptom burden, likely disease trajectories, and prognostic uncertainty can negatively affect physical, psychosocial, and existential wellbeing. Clear, scenariobased information is essential not only for patients and their families but also for general practitioners, who often assume primary responsibility in later disease stages.

Given the increasing complexity of treatment options and disease courses, oncologists should take the lead in outlining realistic prognostic scenarios. Providing equal attention to the expected course of illness and to treatmentrelated information helps ensure shared decisionmaking and equips general practitioners to deliver informed, careful, and continuous care.

Conflict of interest and financial support: none declared.