The future in psychosocial oncology: screening for emotional distress – the sixth vital sign

Abstract

This article explores the possible future of psychosocial oncology. Advancements in treatment and the concomitant increase in survivorship, combined with a highly educated patient population, will result in huge demands on an already strained healthcare system. Role changes and paradigm shifts will be required in order to cope with these challenges. Issues with current treatment silos and fragmented care systems are presented, and the role of a biopsychosocial approach is discussed.