Beyond Survival: Enhancing Patient Experience and Mental Health through Continuity of Care in Oncology
https://doi.org/10.22034/hssr.2025.236744
Farhad Safarpoor Dehkordi, Salayeva Navbahor, Sevara Sadullayeva, Ollaberganov Zayniddin Umarbekovich, Niginabonu Khajiqurbonova, Sultanov Muhammad, Saginova Aygerim Sisenbayevna
Abstract Background: Although oncology traditionally emphasizes survival rates, the patient's journey is deeply influenced by their subjective experience and psychological state. Continuity of Care (CoC)—the consistent, coordinated, and unified management of care over time—is increasingly recognized as a vital element that extends beyond its possible effects on mortality.
Objective: This review consolidates current research to explore how CoC affects patient-reported experience measures (PREMs) and mental health results in individuals with cancer.
Methods: A systematic search of databases (including PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL) was performed for studies published from 2000 to 2024. Search terms comprised "continuity of care," "cancer," "oncology," "patient experience," "quality of life," "anxiety," "depression," "care coordination," and "therapeutic alliance."
results: Substantial evidence shows that greater CoC is reliably linked to better patient experiences, including enhanced communication, trust, and security. Additionally, CoC serves as an important protective factor against psychological illness, lowering anxiety, depression, and sensations of abandonment, especially during care transitions and survivorship.
Conclusion: CoC is a core, adjustable component of quality cancer care that directly improves patients' care experiences and protects their mental health. Emphasizing CoC through intentional models and policies is crucial for realizing genuinely patient-focused oncology.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Related Psychological Interventions for Anxiety and Depression in Advanced Cancer: A Narrative Review
https://doi.org/10.22034/hssr.2025.560793.1020
Priya Priyadarshini
Abstract Objective
This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on the effectiveness of CBT and related therapeutic approaches for addressing anxiety and depression in people with advanced cancer.
Methods
A narrative review method was adopted to integrate findings from various sources, including systematic reviews, randomized trials, pilot studies, and research protocols, all examining CBT, mindfulness-based practices, and other forms of psychotherapy within advanced cancer populations.
Results
Findings suggest that CBT and similar interventions can provide meaningful relief from anxiety and depressive symptoms, though the degree of benefit varies. Mindfulness-based approaches appear particularly helpful in promoting a sense of existential well-being and supporting caregivers. Some structured CBT programs have not demonstrated consistent benefits across all patient groups, with improvements often observed in specific subpopulations. Overall, broader psychotherapeutic approaches indicate the potential for moderate symptom reduction, but evidence remains limited. Newer approaches, such as behavioural activation, are currently under study and may offer alternative options.
Conclusion
Psychological therapies, including CBT, show important but variable effects in managing anxiety and depression in individuals with advanced cancer. Interventions that are tailored to individual patient characteristics, levels of distress, and situational needs may be more effective. Continued research through well-designed, focused trials is essential to better understand how these therapies can be optimized in this population.