Terminal Care for Incurable Cancer Victims

Worcester Medical News Vol. XII, No 5, Nov. 1947. Pg 8

B. Dale Magee, MD, WDMS Curator

In his initial editorial, "Autumn Fever", our president has, with characteristic clarity of thought and kind urge, touched upon needs and opportunities for constructive service as a society to the communities which support us and of which we are a part.

The president nods to one of our members — who not only recognizes a problem but does something about it. Dr. Dunlap threw the weight of his influence and liberally gave his time to the April campaign in support of the American Cancer Society (Massachusetts Division) and it seems only fair that our society and the public should know something of what the raised money is doing for the incurables.

An intelligent approach to the problem is on the horizon, although we’re still a far cry from “adequate terminal care.” Not many understand the extent of the problem, partly because of pride and sensitivity, and partly because in Massachusetts cancer is not yet a reportable disease.

It seems that next to the doctors, social service workers and home nursing organizations would be as close to the problem as anyone. They were called into counsel and under rigid agreement to report their use of funds and tentative allotments were made on as nearly a statewide basis as could be attained through responsible groups willing to cooperate.

It is now the third year this work has been under way; so far, some 500 cases have been aided according to their specific needs by home nursing, hospitalization, transportation for treatment, grants to supplement income, purchase of apparatus, food and medicines, and care in nursing homes. Funds have also been allotted to the only two institutions in the state dedicated to this type of case. Many such cases are helpless and impoverished, requiring aid in all facets. Others have relatively minor material needs, yet all deeply need the assurance of neighborly love and concern for their plight.

How can the Medical Society help? Let us think it through and evolve a “Worcester County Plan.” I wholeheartedly believe that nursing homes and/or small sanatoria — supplemented by public support, if need be — are all part of the answer.

E. L. Hunt