Management of lung cancer : an analysis of the quality of service provided to people suffering from lung cancer

Abstract

This study was devised to examine the quality of service that is being provided to those who are suffering from lung cancer. Repeated studies have shown that when treating such patients in acute medical wards too much emphasis is given to the patient's disorder rather than the person with the disease. Apart from being costly, this approach ignores the psychological trauma that both patients and their nearest ones suffer as a result of the condition. While there seems to be no shortage of diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, other, perhaps more. relevant needs are not being met. This project was carried out by studying the records of 5 deceased patients who had suffered from this condition between 1993 – 1994. Although by no means representative, the results of this study shows that many of the procedures that are currently done on an In-patient basis can be just as effectively done from an Out-patient clinic or as day cases. Moreover, many of the diagnostic tests that were done did neither changed diagnosis nor prognosis. Besides, management of lung cancer even at the advanced stage does not require acute medical care for it was shown that it can be done in other less acute units just as well. What is needed is more attention to the psychosocial aspects of care, better discharge planning and community support. Together, these may provide a more satisfying and less expensive service.