Psychosocial Implications of COVID-19 on Head and Neck Cancer.

Sarah M Dermody,Andrew G Shuman

doi:10.3390/curroncol29020090

Sarah M Dermody, Andrew G Shuman

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol29020090

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Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed healthcare access, delivery, and treatment paradigms throughout oncology. Patients with head and neck cancer comprise an especially vulnerable population due to the nature of their disease and the transmission mechanism of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The consequences of triage decisions and delays in care have serious psychosocial implications for patients. The development of structured psychosocial support programs, coupled with clear and consistent communication from treating physicians, can help mitigate perceptions of abandonment and distress that may accompany delays in care. As the unpredictability of the pandemic’s course continues to burden both providers and patients, we must be proactive in addressing the psychosocial implications of these delays in care.

Highlights

In March of 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a global pandemic [1]
The routine management of oncology patients has evolved from an individualized approach to necessitating a public health ethics perspective, causing providers to face moral dilemmas regarding patient prioritization and triage
Literature suggests that shared decision making may encourage patients to address end-of-life decisions and prompt goals of care discussions which may otherwise go unaddressed [18,19]

Summary

Introduction

In March of 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a global pandemic [1]. Through this unprecedented time of rising death tolls and mutating variants, patients and providers have been impacted physically and psychosocially. Psychosocial consequences of the pandemic are magnified in the population relating to higher rates of social isolation, communication challenges, and increased incidence of mental health disorders and substance dependence. The routine management of oncology patients has evolved from an individualized approach to necessitating a public health ethics perspective, causing providers to face moral dilemmas regarding patient prioritization and triage. Patients’ understanding of these concepts and their perceptions of their own care delivery must be recognized and addressed

Surgical Triage

Communication and Shared Decision Making

Psychosocial Assessment

Patient Support

Emergence of a New Era