What your patient is thinking: The value of a little extra time (20 February 2025)

Summary

In this piece for the BMJ, Chris Bennett shares her thoughts about the year she and her husband had together after he was found to have a brain tumour. Reflecting on the relative risks, costs and benefits of surgery, she describes the value of her husband being given a little more time to spend with his family. She discusses the importance of healthcare professionals giving of honest explanations of choices and their consequences. This can give patients a valuable feeling of having some personal control over their situation.