Bridging the gap in end-of-life care decision making

End-of-life care (EOLC) decision-making plays a prominent role in the field of Gynecologic Oncology. Gynecologic oncologists are unique among surgical oncologists because they often become their patient's primary provider and are responsible for the patient's surgical and medical management. As a result, a close bond forms between the physician and the patient. The gynecologic oncologist is oftentimes the provider responsible for initiating EOLC conversations and making EOLC decisions with terminally ill patients. EOLC planning allows the patient to easily transition from the active treatment of cancer to the management of the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of the dying patient. Without clear and frank discussions regarding patient preferences for EOLC, the patient's voice may get lost. Previous research has examined the importance of communication regarding EOLC preferences and has begun to lay the groundwork for effective dialogue between physicians and gynecologic oncology patients on this delicate topic. The main objective of this review is to evaluate the factors that play a role in the integration of EOLC into clinical practice.