The Art and Science of Predicting Prognosis in Cancer Rehabilitation

Oncologists are often extremely hesitant to provide life expectancy to patients, their families, and rehabilitation clinicians who need this data to develop a realistic and compassionate plan of care. This review will discuss the art and science of determining prognosis for patients considered for admission to an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF). Oncologist overestimate prognosis by as much as fivefold and generally communicate a significantly longer life expectancy to patients and families. Patients with active cancer requiring maximal assistance on admission to an IRF have a nearly 60