What is the primary benefit of advance care planning in oncology?

The primary benefit of advance care planning in oncology is to respect patients' treatment preferences. Advance care planning involves discussions between patients, their families, and healthcare providers about the patient's values, goals, and preferences regarding their treatment and care. It allows patients to express their wishes about what types of interventions they would want, especially in scenarios where they may not be able to communicate their desires later on.

This process ensures that the treatment provided aligns with the patient's values and choices, leading to more personalized and meaningful care. Patients who engage in advance care planning often feel more empowered and confident in their healthcare journey, as they know that their preferences are being honored. This is particularly crucial in oncology, where treatment options may be aggressive and the course of the disease can significantly impact the quality of life.

In contrast, while establishing a strict treatment timetable or ensuring adherence to standard treatment protocols can be practical aspects of healthcare, they may not always align with the patient's wishes and could lead to conflicts if the patient's preferences are not prioritized. Facilitating communication among healthcare teams is important too, but the fundamental goal of advance care planning is to ensure that patients' treatment preferences are respected and integrated into their care plans.