The present study aimed to understand the perceptions of oncologists about the patient's suffering in palliative care and to identify criteria for referral of patients to psychological treatment. Six physicians were interviewed individually and their statements were submitted to content analysis. The themes identified were divided into two categories: 1) Suffering: Types of distress (psychological, spiritual, physical and total), doctor-patient relationship, social support, importance of psychology; and 2) Referral to Psychology: criteria used; obstacles for routing. We conclude that physicians recognize the psychological needs of patients in palliative care and the need for interdisciplinary work. However, there seem to be no objective criteria for the referral of these patients to psychological assistance, being necessary to reflect and change the forwarding and team work.
Palliative care; Interdisciplinarity; Suffering