‘Meaningful Communication': can it enhance the Quality of Life?

Abstract

In treating malignant disease it often seems that the medical profession is primarily concerned with affecting cure or prolonging life, athough it is clear that both the disease, and its treatment, may profoundly affect the patient's normal lifestyle and have a significant effect on the quality of life (QL). Yet the current emphasis on total patient care means that it is no longer enough to be concerned only with the physical aspects of care; the psychosocial effects of disease are becoming increasingly important. Consideration of the patient's QL is a legitimate part of care and interventions can be designed to help the patient to incorporate changes in his physical state into his normal lifestyle. This paper discusses the concept of quality of life and explores the benefits of 'meaningful communication' (education and supportive counselling) in terms of the relief of stress and anxiety. It considers the effects of such communication on the quality of life of affected patients. It is suggested that the l...