Ethical framework for head and neck cancer care impacted by COVID-19

Head Neck. 2020 Jun;42(6):1214-1217. doi: 10.1002/hed.26193. Epub 2020 Apr 28.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended head and neck cancer care delivery in ways unforeseen and unprecedented. The impact of these changes parallels other fields in oncology, but is disproportionate due to protective measures and limitations on potentially aerosolizing procedures and related interventions specific to the upper aerodigestive tract. The moral and professional dimensions of providing ethically appropriate and consistent care for our patients in the COVID-19 crisis are considered herein for head and neck oncology providers.

Keywords: COVID-19; cancer ethics; head and neck cancer; professional duty to treat; public health ethics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections / epidemiology*
  • Coronavirus Infections / prevention & control
  • Disease Management
  • Female
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical Oncology / ethics*
  • Pandemics / prevention & control
  • Pandemics / statistics & numerical data*
  • Patient Care Planning / ethics*
  • Pneumonia, Viral / epidemiology*
  • Pneumonia, Viral / prevention & control
  • Risk Assessment
  • United States