[Telemedicine in Palliative Care: Digital Communication in a Relationship-Based Speciality - Does It Make Sense?] / Telemedizin in der Palliative Care: Digitale Kommunikation in einem beziehungsbasierten Fachgebiet ­ ist das sinnvoll?

Telemedicine in Palliative Care: Digital Communication in a Relationship-Based Speciality - Does It Make Sense? Abstract. Telemedicine in palliative care is established especially in countries with large geographical distances. Digital forms of communication (virtual consultations) are most frequently used and well-accepted by patients and caregivers. The main benefit lies in the reduction of the access barrier in the outpatient setting. Advantages are stress reduction for patients (travel, accessibility) and reduction in the care burden for relatives. Additional benefits compared to the physical visit for symptom-control, quality of life and costs are unclear. Risks are influenced by the lack of physical interaction and data security. To what extent telepalliative care makes sense in a high-density health system is difficult to predict. It is therefore important to use these new tools in a carefully adapted and scientifically verified way.

[Communicating Prognosis and Expectations in Advanced Disease - A Balancing Act in Practice]. / Kommunikation von Prognose und Erwartungen bei fortgeschrittenen Erkrankungen ­ eine Gratwanderung in der Praxis.

Communicating Prognosis and Expectations in Advanced Disease - A Balancing Act in Practice Abstract. To prepare the end of life, to plan important things, to spend the remaining time of life not only with medical treatments, but to live - these are frequently expressed wishes of people with progressive diseases. Prognostic statements are feared by professionals. At the same time, when talking about what lies ahead for those affected, professionals very often make over-optimistic promises. A broader definition of the term prognosis as well as a careful handling of expectations can help to define realistic goals together.