Distress Management

All patients experience some level of distress at various stages of the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Physicians' ability to recognize patients' distress has become more challenging as cancer care has shifted to the ambulatory setting, where visits are often short and rushed. Therefore, using clinical practice guidelines for managing psychosocial distress in cancer patients is critical. These guidelines recommend that each new patient be rapidly assessed in the office or clinic waiting room for evidence of distress. For the most recent version of the guidelines, please visit NCCN.org