Patients Need Science Too: Open Access (Part I)

"Medical professionals, researchers, and advocates are increasingly discussing transparency, shared decision making between patients and care teams, and patient self-care as important parts of cancer and clinical care.  For example, the Association for Patient Access has advocated for transparency in cancer costs and cancer treatment decision making. One element that seems often left out of these conversations, however, is access to information. As has been asserted by reputable groups such as the National Academy of Medicine, having access to clinical and scientific information can help patients feel more informed about, make decisions regarding, and take charge of their care."