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Wakefield D, Ta Y, Dewhurst F, Hussain J, Chamberlain C, Etkind S. Qualified and motivated, but limited by specialty-specific barriers: a national survey of UK Palliative Medicine consultants research experience. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 14:76-86. [PMID: 37611937 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Providing high-quality safe palliative care requires high-quality clinically driven research. Little is known about how to optimise clinical research capacity in this field.To understand interest and capacity to conduct clinical research in palliative medicine and identify key facilitators and barriers, by surveying palliative medicine consultants and academic trainees. METHODS National online survey exploring experience in conducting research, including facilitators and barriers. Sent to all current UK palliative medicine consultants, and previous/current academic trainees. Descriptive statistics are reported with framework analysis of free text responses. RESULTS 195 surveys were submitted including 15 respondents with Integrated Academic Training (IAT) experience. 78% (n=140/180) of consultants were interested in conducting research. Despite this enthusiasm, 83% had no allocated time within their job plan. 88% of those who undertook IAT would recommend IAT, but 60% reported difficulty transitioning from academic trainee to research active consultant.Barriers to research included; insufficient research culture and integration, with small teams working in a mixture of National Health Service (NHS) and non-NHS settings, leading to isolated, silo working. Even those who had undertaken IAT, felt a 'cliff edge' in opportunities after completing IAT. Filling service gaps was routinely prioritised over research activity. CONCLUSION Palliative medicine consultants, including those who have completed academic training want to conduct research but overwhelming barriers limit activity. A palliative care-specific strategy that permeates different palliative care settings, promotes interspecialty collaboration and improves the current infrastructure for palliative care research to maximise gains from IAT and embed a research culture are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna Wakefield
- North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-Upon-Tees, UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Felicity Dewhurst
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- St Oswald's Hospice, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jamilla Hussain
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | - Charlotte Chamberlain
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- University Hospitals Bristol & Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Simon Etkind
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
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Ding J, Licqurish S, Cook A, Ritson D, Masarei C, Chua D, Mitchell G, Johnson CE. Delivery and outcomes of end-of-life care in the Australian context: Experiences and reflections of general practitioners. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e5145-e5155. [PMID: 35916631 PMCID: PMC10087779 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Previous research on general practitioners' (GPs') involvement in end-of-life care has largely focused on a specific aspect of care or has provided broad overviews that failed to capture individual variations in patient management. This qualitative study aimed to explore Australian GPs' feedback and reflections on the individual-level care provided for patients in their last year of life. The findings of the study were drawn from a nation-wide survey of GPs' experiences in end-of-life care. We analysed responses from 63 GPs for 267 of the 272 reported deaths. Factors influencing delivery of optimal end-of-life care reported by GPs were categorised into four groups: patient-related factors, carer-related factors, interactions between GPs and patients/carer-related factors and broader health system issues. Each group included both barriers and facilitators. Our study highlighted importance of the emotional dimensions of therapeutic relationships with patients and their family, availability and capacity of family support and smooth communication and continuity of care between GPs and hospitals in delivery of optimal end-of-life care. Lack of these facilitators, misconceptions of palliative care and conflicts on implementing care plans among patients and their family tended to impede delivery of such care. On the basis of our findings in the present study and previous literature, we conclude that improved end-of-life care in general practice requires comprehensive approaches to supporting both the GP and family to provide care in patients' preferred place, such as enhanced palliative care training and improved availability of external support for GPs, higher levels of hospital-based services reaching into community settings and broader community-based resources for families beyond simply the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Ding
- Xiangya School of NursingCentral South UniversityChangshaPeople's Republic of China
- School of Population and Global HealthThe University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
| | | | - Angus Cook
- School of Population and Global HealthThe University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
| | | | | | - David Chua
- Primary Care Clinical UnitThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Geoffrey Mitchell
- Primary Care Clinical UnitThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Claire E. Johnson
- Monash Nursing and MidwiferyMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Australian Health Services Research InstituteUniversity of WollongongWollongongAustralia
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Payne S, Harding A, Williams T, Ling J, Ostgathe C. Revised recommendations on standards and norms for palliative care in Europe from the European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC): A Delphi study. Palliat Med 2022; 36:680-697. [PMID: 35114839 PMCID: PMC9006395 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221074547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2009, the EAPC published recommendations on standards and norms for palliative care in Europe, and a decade later, wished to update them to reflect contemporary practice. AIM To elicit consensus on standards and norms for palliative care in Europe, taking account of developments since 2009. DESIGN A Delphi technique used three sequential online survey rounds, and a final expert consultation (EAPC Board). The original 2009 questionnaire with 134 statements was updated with 13 new concepts and practices following a scoping of the literature between 2009 and 2020 (total: 147 statements). SETTING/PARTICIPANTS One contact of Boards of 52 national European organisations affiliated to the EAPC were invited to participate, with subsequent rounds sent to respondees. The EAPC Board (n = 13) approved final recommendations. RESULTS In Round 1: 30 organisations (14 organisations × two people, 16 organisations × one person, total n = 44) in 27 countries responded (response rate 58% organisations, 82% countries), Round 2 (n = 40), Round 3 (n = 38). 119 statements reached consensus in Round 1, 9 in Round 2, 7 in Round 3. In total 135/145 statements in five domains (terminology, philosophy, levels, delivery, services) reached consensus (defined as >75% agreement), (122) were original EAPC recommendations with 13 new recommendations included emerging specialisms: neonatal, geriatric and dementia care, and better care practices. Seven statements failed to reach consensus and four were removed as irrelevant or repetition. CONCLUSIONS Most recommendations on standards and norms for palliative care in Europe remain unchanged since 2009. Evolving concepts in palliative care can be used to support advocacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Andrew Harding
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Tom Williams
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Julie Ling
- European Association for Palliative Care, Vilvoorde, Belgium
| | - Christoph Ostgathe
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Palliative Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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Abu-Odah H, Molassiotis A, Liu JYW. Gathering policymakers' perspectives as an essential step in planning and implementing palliative care services at a national level: an example from a resource-limited country. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:43. [PMID: 35354398 PMCID: PMC8967559 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00936-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increasing recognition of the role played by palliative care (PC) services, the priorities of policymakers in supporting PC remain unclear and have sometimes engendered controversy. There are few studies exploring policymakers' perspectives towards PC services, with most shedding light on obstacles to PC development. Furthermore, no study has explored policymakers' perspectives towards providing PC at the national level in resource-limited countries. This study provides a platform for providing PC as part of the Palestinian healthcare system (HCS) by exploring policymakers' perspectives on PC, an essential step to developing a PC programme. METHODS A descriptive qualitative study design was employed using semi-structured interviews. Participants were those identified as responsible for making executive and legislative decisions about health services (including PC) in the HCS. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Twelve decision and policymakers participated in the study. Four categories were generated from the content analysis: (1) the nature of current PC healthcare services, (2) the potential benefits of PC, (3) challenges to providing PC, and (4) considerations in providing PC. The current PC services provided to Palestinian patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families are not comprehensive, and are limited to symptom management. There is a Palestinian national strategic plan for developing PC; however, the development goals are not clearly defined, and the plan's capabilities are inadequate. Several challenges to the provision of PC were found to relate to issues of education and training, the allocation of funding, and the availability of medications. CONCLUSIONS Integrating PC into the Palestinian university curricula as a compulsory course and establishing higher degree programmes in PC to overcome the shortage of PC specialists is required. Developing policies aligned with national laws could help enhance health services to patients and their families and resolve several challenges. Cooperating with national and international institutions in seeking funding could boost PC development and medication availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hammoda Abu-Odah
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong.
| | - Alex Molassiotis
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - Justina Yat Wa Liu
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
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Pastrana T, De Lima L, Stoltenberg M, Peters H. Palliative Medicine Specialization in Latin America: A Comparative Analysis. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:960-967. [PMID: 33933625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formal recognition of palliative medicine as a specialty has been one of the main drivers in the development of palliative care. AIM To provide a comparative, comprehensive overview on the status of palliative medicine as medical specialty across Latin America. METHODS We conducted a comparative study of 19 Latin American countries. Key informants and persons in charge of the specialization training programs were identified and interviewed. We collected data on general recognition as specialty (title, process of certification) and on training program characteristics (title, start year, requirements, training length, and type full time or part time). RESULTS Eight of 19 countries (42%) Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay and Venezuela reported palliative medicine as medical specialty. Thirty-five (sub)specialization training programs in palliative medicine were identified in the region (eight as a specialty and 27 as a subspecialty), the majority in Colombia (43.5%) and Brazil (33.7%). A total of 20% of the programs have yet to graduate their first cohort. Length of clinical training as specialty varied from two to four years, and from 520 hours to three years for a subspecialty. CONCLUSION Despite long-standing efforts to improve quality of care, and significant achievements to date, most Latin American countries have yet to develop palliative medicine as medical specialty. Specialty and sub-specialty training programs remain scarce in relation to regional needs, and the programs that do exist vary widely in duration, structure, and content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Pastrana
- Department of Palliative Medicine (T.P.), RWTH University Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Liliana De Lima
- International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care (IAHPC) (L.D.L.), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mark Stoltenberg
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatrics (M.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School (M.S.), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Harm Peters
- Dieter Scheffner Center for Medical Education and Educational Research (H.P.), Dean´s Office of Study Affairs, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Vanhanen A, Niemi-Murola L, Pöyhiä R. Twelve Years of Postgraduate Palliative Medicine Training in Finland: How International Guidelines Are Implemented. Palliat Med Rep 2021; 2:242-249. [PMID: 34927148 PMCID: PMC8675218 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2021.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective: The European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) published recommendations for postgraduate education in palliative medicine in 2009. However, it is currently unknown how the EAPC remommendations are implemented in national programs, as audits of them are lacking. In Finland, the national society of palliative medicine has been organizing postgraduate palliative medicine training for experienced physicians since 2008, but the program has not been audited. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive analysis of the program. Design: In 2018-2019, a questionnaire on the Finnish Training Program for Palliative Medicine Competence was sent to past participants and delivered in person to current trainees. Learning outcomes were assessed with validated instruments for received skills and attitudes. All available educational archives were examined as well. Results: Forty-five (32 %) out of 155 specialists and 13 (38 %) out of 34 trainees responded. According to their assessments, the training provided them well with most skills required to work as palliative care specialists, but poorly with research capabilities. However, the Finnish program covers the EAPC guidelines well. Problem-based education, group work, and clinical excursions have been added to the latest curriculum. Maturation through work is needed for administrative and consultant competences. Conclusion: The EAPC guidelines can be included in a national course. The course had an important positive influence on the attitudes and learning of physicians in palliative medicine. The development of the education would benefit from pedagogical consultation. Uniform standards for auditing national programs should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leila Niemi-Murola
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Reino Pöyhiä
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Oncology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- The Palliative Care Center, South Savo Social and Health Care Authority (Essote), Helsinki, Finland
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Shamieh O, Richardson K, Abdel-Razeq H, Mansour A, Payne S. Gaining Palliative Medicine Subspecialty Recognition and Fellowship Accreditation in Jordan. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:1003-1011. [PMID: 32442479 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Palliative medicine (PM) has gained subspecialty recognition in many countries during the past two decades. Jordan is one of the first Arab countries to gain accreditation for the specialty. OBJECTIVES To outline the process undertaken by leaders in palliative care in Jordan to have PM recognized as a subspecialty and the development of a two-year fellowship training program. To contextualize the Jordanian experience with the experience from other countries and assess the need for PM specialty programs in Jordan. METHODS A thorough review of all documentations, letters, correspondence, and proposals exchanged between the palliative care department at King Hussein Cancer Center and the Jordanian Medical Council from 2011 to 2017. An assessment of the number of certified physicians and fellowship posts required to meet the current palliative care needs in Jordan, using population-based need for palliative care. RESULTS The process of gaining subspecialty status for PM in Jordan was complex, lengthy, and dependent on the collaboration of many officials and health sector organizations working together on a national strategy to achieve it. Ultimately, PM was recognized as a subspecialty in 2017, a two-year fellowship program was accredited by the Jordanian Medical Council in 2018, with a recognized subspecialty board examination, which can be accessed by many medical and surgical specialties. It is estimated that 185-235 full-time equivalent palliative care specialist physicians are needed to meet the demand of patients in Jordan. CONCLUSION Key factors enabling accreditation to happen in Jordan were strong leadership, persistence, collaboration with major stakeholders, and seeking out opportunities to promote the specialty. Our experience and lessons learnt are transferable to other countries and may prove beneficial to others aiming to gain subspecialty recognition for PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Shamieh
- Department of Palliative Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC), Amman, Jordan; School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; Center for Palliative & Cancer Care in Conflict (CPCCC), KHCC, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Kathryn Richardson
- Department of Palliative Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC), Amman, Jordan
| | - Hikmat Abdel-Razeq
- School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; Department of Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Asem Mansour
- Department of Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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Ding J, Johnson CE, Lee YCO, Gazey A, Cook A. Characteristics of People with Dementia vs Other Conditions on Admission to Inpatient Palliative Care. J Am Geriatr Soc 2020; 68:1825-1833. [PMID: 32329901 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.16458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our aim was to (1) describe the clinical characteristics and symptoms of people diagnosed with dementia at the time of admission to inpatient palliative care; and (2) compare the nature and severity of these palliative care-related problems to patients with other chronic diseases. DESIGN Descriptive study using assessment data on point of care outcomes (January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2018). SETTING A total of 129 inpatient palliative care services participating in the Australian Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration. PARTICIPANTS A total of 29,971 patients with a primary diagnosis of dementia (n = 1,872), lung cancer (n = 19,499), cardiovascular disease (CVD, n = 5,079), stroke (n = 2,659), or motor neuron disease (MND, n = 862). MEASUREMENTS This study reported the data collected at the time of admission to inpatient palliative care services including patients' self-rated levels of distress from seven common physical symptoms, clinician-rated symptom severity, functional dependency, and performance status. Other data analyzed included number of admissions, length of inpatient stay, and palliative care phases. RESULTS At the time of admission to inpatient palliative care services, relative to patients with lung cancer, CVD, and MND, people with dementia presented with lower levels of distress from most symptoms (odds ratios [ORs] range from .15 to .80; P < .05 for all) but higher levels of functional impairment (ORs range from 3.02 to 8.62; P < .001 for all), and they needed more assistance with basic activities of daily living (ORs range from 3.83 to 12.24; P < .001 for all). The trends were mostly the opposite direction when compared with stroke patients. Patients with dementia tended to receive inpatient palliative care later than those with lung cancer and MND. CONCLUSION The unique pattern of palliative care problems experienced by people with dementia, as well as the skills of the relevant health services, need to be considered when deciding on the best location of care for each individual. Access to appropriately trained palliative care clinicians is important for people with high levels of physical or psychological concerns, irrespective of the care setting or diagnosis. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1825-1833, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Ding
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Claire E Johnson
- Monash Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Supportive and Palliative Care, Eastern Health, Victoria, Australia.,Australian Health Services Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | | | - Angela Gazey
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Angus Cook
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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Abu-Odah H, Molassiotis A, Liu J. Challenges on the provision of palliative care for patients with cancer in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review of reviews. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:55. [PMID: 32321487 PMCID: PMC7178566 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00558-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the significant benefits of palliative care (PC) services for cancer patients, multiple challenges hinder the provision of PC services for these patients. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are witnessing a sharp growth in the burden of non-communicable diseases. There is a significant gap between demand and supply of PC in LMICs in current health services. This review aims to synthesise evidence from previous reviews and deliver a more comprehensive mapping of the existing literature about personal, system, policy, and organisational challenges and possible facilitators on the provision of PC services for cancer patients in LMICs. METHODS A systematic review of reviews was performed following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, Web of Sciences, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify review papers published between 2000 and 2018 that considered challenges and possible facilitators to PC provision. A modified socioecological model was used as a framework for analysing and summarising findings. RESULTS Fourteen reviews were included. The reviews varied in terms of aim, settings, and detail of the challenges and possible facilitators. The main challenges of personal and health care systems included knowledge deficits and misunderstandings from patients, families, the general public, and health care providers about PC; and inadequate number of trained workforce. Besides, limited physical infrastructure, insufficient drugs for symptom relief and lack of a comprehensive national plan for implementing PC were the core organisational and policy level challenges that were recognised. Furthermore, the main possible facilitators that were identified included provision of adequate training for health care providers and health education for patients, families and the general public to enhance their knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes to PC. Finally, involvement of policymakers and making drugs available for symptom relief should also be in place to improve the health care systems. CONCLUSIONS Understanding challenges to the provision of PC for people with cancer could help in the development of a PC pathway in LMICs. This knowledge could be used as a guide to develop an intervention programme to improve PC. Political influence and support are also required to ensure the sustainability and the provision of high-quality PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hammoda Abu-Odah
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Alex Molassiotis
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Justina Liu
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Perception of the Quality of Communication With Physicians Among Relatives of Dying Residents of Long-term Care Facilities in 6 European Countries: PACE Cross-Sectional Study. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 21:331-337. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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The association between PaTz and improved palliative care in the primary care setting: a cross-sectional survey. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2019; 20:112. [PMID: 31376833 PMCID: PMC6679548 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-019-1002-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background The PaTz-method (acronym for Palliatieve Thuiszorg, palliative care at home) is perceived to improve coordination, continuity and communication in palliative care in the Netherlands. Although important for further implementation, research showing a clear effect of PaTz on patient-related outcomes is scarce. This study aimed to examine perceived barriers and added value of PaTz and its association with improved care outcomes. Methods Ninety-eight Dutch general practitioners and 229 Dutch district nurses filled out an online questionnaire with structured questions on added value and barrier perception of PaTz-participation, and palliative care provided to their most recently deceased patient, distributed online by Dutch medical and nurses’ associations. Data from PaTz-participants and non-participants was compared using Chi-square tests, independent t-tests and logistic regression analyses. Results While both PaTz-participants and non-participants perceived PaTz to be beneficial for knowledge collaboration, coordination and continuity of care, time (or lack thereof) is considered the most important barrier for participation. PaTz-participation is associated with discussing five or more end-of-life topics with patients (OR = 3.16) and with another healthcare provider (OR = 2.55). PaTz-participation is also associated with discussing palliative sedation (OR = 3.85) and euthanasia (OR = 2.97) with another healthcare provider. Significant associations with other care outcomes were not found. Conclusions General practitioners and district nurses feel that participating in a PaTz-group has benefits, but perceive various barriers for participation. While participating in a PaTz-group is associated with improved communication between healthcare providers and with patients, the effect on patient outcomes remains unclear. To stimulate further implementation, future research should focus on the effect of PaTz on tangible care characteristics and how to facilitate participation and remove barriers.
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Arias N, Garralda E, De Lima L, Rhee JY, Centeno C. Global Palliative Care and Cross-National Comparison: How Is Palliative Care Development Assessed? J Palliat Med 2019; 22:580-590. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Arias
- ATLANTES Research Program, Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Garralda
- ATLANTES Research Program, Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra/Institute of Health Research of Navarra), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Liliana De Lima
- International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care, Houston, Texas
| | - John Y. Rhee
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Carlos Centeno
- ATLANTES Research Program, Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra/Institute of Health Research of Navarra), Pamplona, Spain
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Koper I, Pasman HRW, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD. Experiences of Dutch general practitioners and district nurses with involving care services and facilities in palliative care: a mixed methods study. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:841. [PMID: 30409204 PMCID: PMC6225713 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3644-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Generals practitioners (GPs) and district nurses (DNs) play a leading role in providing palliative care at home. Many services and facilities are available to support them in providing this complex care. This study aimed to examine the extent to which GPs and DNs involve these services, what their experiences are, and how involvement of these services and facilities can be improved. Methods Sequential mixed methods consisting of an online questionnaire with structured and open questions completed by 108 GPs and 258 DNs, followed by three homogenous online focus groups with 8 GPs and 19 DNs, analyzed through open coding. Results Most GPs reported that they sometimes or often involved palliative home care teams (99%), hospices (94%), and palliative care consultation services (93%). Most DNs reported sometimes or often involving volunteers (90%), hospices (88%), and spiritual caregivers (80%). The least involved services and facilities were psychologists and psychiatrists (51% and 50%) and social welfare (44% and 57%). Main reason for not involving services and facilities was ‘not needing’ them. If they had used them, most GPs and DNs (68–93%) reported solely positive experiences. Hardly anyone (0–3%) reported solely negative experiences with any of the services and the facilities. GPs and DNs suggested improvements in three areas: (1) establishment of local centers giving information on available services and facilities, (2) presentation of services and facilities in local multidisciplinary meetings, and (3) support organizations to proactively offer their facilities and services. Conclusion Psychological, social, and spiritual services are involved less often, suggesting that the classic care model, which focuses strongly on somatic issues, is still well entrenched. More familiarity with services that can provide additional care in these areas, regarding their availability and their added value, could improve the quality of life for patients and relatives at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Koper
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL-1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - H Roeline W Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL-1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL-1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Integration of oncology and palliative care: a Lancet Oncology Commission. Lancet Oncol 2018; 19:e588-e653. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(18)30415-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 297] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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15
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Narsavage GL, Chen YJ, Korn B, Elk R. The potential of palliative care for patients with respiratory diseases. Breathe (Sheff) 2017; 13:278-289. [PMID: 29209422 PMCID: PMC5709801 DOI: 10.1183/20734735.014217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Based on the demonstrated effectiveness of palliative care in the alleviation of symptoms and enhancement of life quality, it is important to incorporate palliative care early in the respiratory disease trajectory. Quality palliative care addresses eight domains that are all patient and family centred. Palliative care interventions in respiratory conditions include management of symptoms such as dyspnoea, cough, haemoptysis, sputum production, fatigue and respiratory secretion management, especially as the end-of-life nears. A practical checklist of activities based on the domains of palliative care can assist clinicians to integrate palliative care into their practice. Clinical management of patients receiving palliative care requires consideration of human factors and related organisational characteristics that involve cultural, educational and motivational aspects of the patient/family and clinicians. Early palliative care can relieve suffering and provide support for people with respiratory diseaseshttp://ow.ly/z0Hd30jpsb4
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia L Narsavage
- Dept of Nursing, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Yea-Jyh Chen
- Kent State University - College of Nursing, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Bettina Korn
- End-of-Life Care Programme, St. James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ronit Elk
- University of South Carolina - College of Nursing, Columbia, SC, USA
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16
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Fadhil I, Lyons G, Payne S. Barriers to, and opportunities for, palliative care development in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Lancet Oncol 2017; 18:e176-e184. [PMID: 28271872 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(17)30101-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The 22 countries of WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region are experiencing an increase in the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer. Of the six WHO regions, the Eastern Mediterranean Region is projected to have the greatest increase in cancer incidence in the next 15 years. Furthermore, most cancers are diagnosed at a late stage, resulting in a lower cancer survival rate than in the European Region and the Region of the Americas. With increasing numbers of deaths from cancer, palliative care should be available to relieve suffering in patients with advanced disease and at the end of life. However, in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, the palliative care available is variable and inconsistent. Several barriers exist to the development and expansion of palliative care delivery in this region, including the absence of palliative care in national policies, little partnership working, insufficient palliative care education for health-care professionals and volunteers, poor public awareness, and gaps in access to essential pain-relief medicines. In this Review, we explore data and evidence from published literature, WHO meeting reports, cancer control mission reports, and the WHO global NCD country capacity survey to identify the status of palliative care in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, including the challenges and opportunities for development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtihal Fadhil
- WHO, Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Gemma Lyons
- WHO, Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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17
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Woitha K, Garralda E, Martin-Moreno JM, Clark D, Centeno C. Ranking of Palliative Care Development in the Countries of the European Union. J Pain Symptom Manage 2016; 52:370-7. [PMID: 27287622 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 02/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT There is growing interest in monitoring palliative care (PC) development internationally. One aspect of this is the ranking of such development for comparative purposes. OBJECTIVES To generate a ranking classification and to compare scores for PC development in the countries of the European Union, 2007 and 2013. PC "development" in this study is understood as a combination of the existence of relevant services in a country ("resources") plus the capacity to develop further resources in the future ("vitality"). METHODS "Resources" comprise indicators of three types of PC services per population (inpatient palliative care units and inpatient hospices, hospital support teams, and home care teams). "Vitality" of PC is estimated by numerical scores for the existence of a national association, a directory of services, physician accreditation, attendances at a key European conference and volume of publications on PC development. The leading country (by raw score) is then considered as the reference point against which all other countries are measured. Different weightings are applied to resources (75%) and vitality (25%). From this, an overall ranking is constructed. RESULTS The U.K. achieved the highest level of development (86% of the maximum possible score), followed by Belgium and overall The Netherlands (81%), and Sweden (80%). In the resources domain, Luxembourg, the U.K., and Belgium were leading. The top countries in vitality were Germany and the U.K. In comparison to 2007, The Netherlands, Malta, and Portugal showed the biggest improvements, whereas the positions of Spain, France, and Greece deteriorated. CONCLUSION The ranking method permitted a comparison of palliative care development between countries and shows changes over time. Recommendations for improving the ranking include improvements to the methodology and greater explanation of the levels and changes it reveals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Woitha
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Institute for Health Research of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Eduardo Garralda
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Institute for Health Research of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - David Clark
- School of Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Centeno
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Institute for Health Research of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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