The Challenges involved in training oncologists in psycho-oncology: Discussions and proposals

Actually in France, medical studies do not contain enough teachings of psychology (often in PACES or first year); yet, these deficiencies can turn out problematic with regard to advances in science, new treatments, and the evolution of certain cancers. The insufficiency of teachings of this discipline may have important consequences: on the management of the patient in various moments of its disease; on the implementation of the relation of care; on the use of medical skills and the partnership with the sick person; on the psychic health of the very doctor. We decided to question some residents in oncology and oncologists, to collect their opinion on the training of the physicians in human sciences, thanks to a mini questionnaire. By confronting these answers to our experiences of clinicians and university lecturers, we shall show how the sensitization of the oncologists to the relation, to the logic of the transference, and to the interview, thanks to interactive educational methods of sharing of experiences, supervisions, etc., can turn out relevant in the medical practice in oncology.