Palliative Care: A Holistic Discipline

Integr Cancer Ther. 2016 Mar;15(1):5-9. doi: 10.1177/1534735415617015. Epub 2015 Dec 1.

Abstract

Although mind and body are inextricably interwoven, psychological factors have received insufficient attention within medicine. The biomedical model though necessary is not sufficient. In medicine and particularly in palliative care, a holistic biopsychosocial approach is required. A number of examples from clinical practice in a hospice setting are presented.

Keywords: biopsychosocial care; cancers; clinical case reports; palliative care; terminal illness.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Hospice Care / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Palliative Care*
  • Patient Comfort / methods