The Case for Shared Decision-making in Oncology and Why the Philippine Healthcare System is Primed for It.

Shared decision-making is ethically imperative, and is a key component in cost-effective, efficient and equitable cancer care. We review the recent advances in resources, training, tool development, and health policy, supporting the implementation of shared decision-making, and how the Philippines is primed for it.

Shared Decision Making in Oncology and Its Implementation in Cervical Cancer Management in the Philippines: A Narrative Review.

Purpose: Shared decision making (SDM) is an approach where clinicians and patients make decisions together using the best available evidence. Although much studied, recognized to be ethically imperative, and recommended in international health policies, it remains poorly implemented. In the Philippines, there are limited studies on patient decision making preferences and SDM.

Clinical outcomes of single application multi-fractionated CT-guided interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer: A multi-institution initial experience.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and clinical outcomes of single application multi-fractionated computed tomography (CT)-guided interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy given in four fractions in locally advanced cervical cancer.

Material And Methods: Patients with locally advanced cervical cancer stage IIB-IVA treated definitively with external radiation ± weekly cisplatin, followed by single application multi-fractionated CT-guided interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy in four fractions were included. Dosimetry data, clinical response, and toxicity records were reviewed.