What Really is Personalised Cancer Care?

In recent years, the healthcare landscape has seen a significant shift towards terms like “patient-centric,” “personalised care,” and “holistic health.” These phrases adorn banners, slogans, and marketing materials, signaling a growing emphasis on placing the patient at the heart of care. While this intention is commendable, the challenge lies in translating these concepts into actionable strategies.

During my journey as a carer for my mother battling cancer, these terms were unfamiliar territory. “Holistic” seemed synonymous with alternative therapies, yet today, it permeates my conversations. My career path, rooted in holistic care principles, has become the cornerstone of my life’s work. However, amidst the buzzwords and marketing hype, I’ve observed a disconnection between rhetoric and reality.

True personalised care extends beyond medical reports and clinical parameters. It’s about forging a genuine connection with the patient, understanding their needs, fears, and aspirations on a human level. Having lived alongside a cancer patient for over six years and worked closely with countless others, I’ve come to realise that personalised care transcends segmented boxes and standardised protocols.

It’s about being present, empathetic, and attuned to the patient’s physical and emotional state. It’s about recognizing the nuances of their experience and tailoring care accordingly. Personalised care demands attention to detail like no other, requiring healthcare providers to go beyond the surface and delve into the intricacies of individual needs.

In essence, personalised cancer care is about seeing the person behind the diagnosis—acknowledging their humanity, dignity, and inherent worth. It’s about creating a therapeutic alliance built on trust, compassion, and mutual respect. As carers, we have the privilege and responsibility to champion this approach, advocating for a healthcare system that truly puts the patient first. Only then can we fulfil the promise of personalised care and enhance the quality of life for those facing cancer and their loved ones.