2018 Volume 58 Issue 3 Pages 231-236
Psycho-oncology has been developed as a field of practice and research based on a holistic medical care model for cancer patients, that is Bio-Psycho-Social Model. One practical example of Bio-Psycho-Social Model in psycho-oncology is a comprehensive assessment for psychiatric and psychological consultation for cancer patients. Comprehensive assessment is a framework to assess patients’ problems in the order of (1) physical symptoms, (2) psychiatric symptoms, (3) social and economic problems, (4) psychological problems, and (5) existential problems. In this paper, the concept and practical methods of comprehensive assessment are explained. In addition, the detailed methods in assessment of psychiatric symptoms and psychological problems including problem-solving approach are discribed, in which experts dealing with mental problems will play an important role in the team-approach of cancer care. Finally, direction and agenda of the future development of Bio-Psycho-Social Model are discussed.
