Qualitative research reveals complexities in advance care planning for patients with treatable but not curable cancer, indicating a need for clearer communication.
Key Points
Advance care planning is challenging for patients facing uncertainty with treatable but not curable cancer.
Participants reported that ongoing treatments complicated their ability to plan for future care and end-of-life decisions.
Most did not recognize clinician conversations as advance care planning, having a preference for discussions with family.
A separation between medical planning and personal discussions may improve the process and understanding of advance care planning.