Journal of Clinical Research & Bioethics

Abstract

Medical Futility in Cancer Care: Distinct Challenges and Action Strategies

Gallagher CM, Bennett A and Weber E

Clinical cases involving the concern of medical futility can be especially challenging within the context of cancer care. We offer two considerations of which one should be mindful when dealing with cases involving medical futility; neither have been extensively discussed in the existing literature. Then, we explain how these considerations can become even more pronounced within a cancer-care setting, and present action strategies for clinicians and clinical ethicists who confront these issues within the clinical environment. The goal of these action strategies is to assist clinicians and clinical ethicists in communicating effectively with patients and their families about situations involving requests for medically futile interventions.