Biopsychosocial Assessment of Cancer Patients: Methods and Suggestions

Assessment of biopsychosocial factors in cancer patients is presented with an emphasis on methodological issues. Typical cancer patient problems are identified (e.g., depression, pain, nausea and vomiting) and various means of evaluating these are discussed. Types and criteria for assessment are briefly outlined so as to enable the reader to critique methods currently in use. Pertinent issues in psychosocial oncology assessment such as patient definition, assessment timing, and relevancy of assessment are addressed, as are considerations concerning the sensitive use of clinical judgment when working with this population. It was concluded that instruments and procedures employed should be relatively brief and that they need to be chosen judicially. Finally, the clinician’s understanding, sensitivity and empathy are viewed as paramount to accurate, comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment of cancer patients.