All the technology and advances in medical science hasn't changed the most difficult thing we do as physicians - relay emotionally charged diagnostic and prognostic information to our patients. How can we do a better job? Communication skills do not automatically improve with increasing physician experience. Dr. Alan Astrow, the director of the division of hematology and medical oncology at Maimonides Cancer Center in New York City explains how we can break bad news to patients in a more effective and supportive way.