Surgical patients frequently have significant palliative care needs, however, they are less likely to receive palliative care compared to medical patients. In this study published in the Annals of Surgery, researchers from several medical sub specialties joined to describe the existing science of palliative care in surgery within three priority areas and expose specific gaps within the field. They highlight the need to improve communication and decision making that is in line with patient-oriented outcomes.
Links to Medscape article (5/2017) and Annals of Surgery abstract (5/2017)