Dr. Joseph on Being Optimistic with Patients

Richard W. Joseph, MD, oncologist, Mayo Clinic, discusses remaining optimistic with patients.

Joseph says that while patients like when their clinician is optimistic, it is important to be honest. However, it is still important to remain optimistic even when delivering difficult news to the patient.

Nurses and physicians are experienced in helping patients through a deadly disease, sometimes even with positive outcomes, and bringing these stories up to patients helps, Joseph says.