As a 31-year-old doctor, Viet Anh faced an incredibly difficult task when he sat opposite a 39-year-old man with lung cancer that no longer responded to treatment. Despite the results of the examination showing that the patient was in the final stages, both the patient and his family still held out hope of recovery.
In another room, Viet Anh had to deliver the news to the patient’s wife about her husband’s condition and the need for palliative care. This is a task that medical professionals around the world struggle with, as telling someone they are dying is one of the most challenging things a doctor can do. The emotional and psychological implications for both the patient and their family are profound.
Doctor Nguyen Thi Huong, Deputy Director of the Palliative Care Center, also faced similar challenges with young cancer patients who were determined to live despite their terminal illnesses. Medical professionals must find gentle and effective ways to communicate with patients in their final stages, as breaking bad news plays a crucial role in medical practice.
As Vietnam continues to see an increasing number of cancer patients, doctors like Viet Anh are learning how to deliver bad news with empathy and sincerity while maintaining realistic expectations for their patients’ dignity and hope for the future. While medical technology advances offer some hope, it’s important to remember that nothing can replace human connection in these situations.
