Patient, Caregiver, and Provider Well-Being in Oncology

Well-being is a broad concept that can be described by physical, spiritual, social, intellectual, mental/emotional, occupational, environmental, and financial dimensions, which are interconnected and reliant on one another.2 Oncologic treatments are primarily focused on the physical aspect of well-being; however, addressing the other 7 dimensions using modalities like IO, mindfulness, psychosocial support, and PROs can help patients with symptoms from their disease and treatments in addition to providing patients with autonomy and control in their care (Table 2). Patient caregivers are also greatly affected by a loved one's cancer diagnosis, which can affect their physical, emotional, financial, spiritual, and social well-being.3 Strategies to enhance caregiver support are underway, such as greater inclusion in IO, mindfulness, and psychosocial support (see Table 2); however, further research regarding caregiver well-being is warranted, as caring for a loved one with cancer not only impacts the caregiver, but the caregiver burden can also impact the QOL and emotional status of the patient.6 Rates of burnout among medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists range from 28% to 46% in the United States.48,51-53 Consequences of burnout may include inadequate patient care,54 professional ineffectiveness, and excessive job turnover contributing to financial strain on health care systems. Unfortunately, burnout also contributes to physician harm.55 The Stanford Model of Professional Fulfillment provides a framework to mitigate burnout56 by enhancing the culture of wellness, optimizing practice efficiency, and encouraging personal resilience. Interventions on both local and national levels are ongoing to enhance professional fulfillment and improve well-being among oncology professionals.