What are the communication skills and needs of doctors when communicating a poor prognosis to patients and their families? A qualitative study from South Africa.

Having hospital-based palliative care teams in all public hospitals will provide support for patients and doctors handling difficult conversations. All healthcare professionals should be trained in palliative care so as to effectively communicate with patients and their families concerns related to poor prognosis. Communication, loss and grief issues should be part of the curriculum in all disciplines and throughout training in medical school.