Dr. Muss on the Treatment Team for Older Cancer Patients

Hyman B. Muss, MD, Professor of Medicine, Director of Geriatric Oncology, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, discusses the need for a team environment when treating an older patient.

Muss says that it is necessary for other players besides the physician: nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. Social issues such as dealing with treatment and transportation to the clinic are often overwhelming to older patients.

Physical and occupational therapists are also crucial to a patient's survival. If an older patient has one or two falls every six months, their life is dramatically shortened, Muss says. Physical and occupational therapists can teach balance to prevent falls, fractures, and shortened survival.